Rock Quarry Elementary is committed to creating a strong school by building a strong library. It’s part of the Tuscaloosa City Board of Education members’ ambitious plan to create robust library collections. Currently, TCS libraries fall well below the standard for “exemplary” libraries based on the Alabama Department Education’s benchmarks. Of the system’s 18 libraries, none meet the designation--yet.

 The Board’s “Strong Libraries; Strong Schools.” initiative seeks to change that.  State funding ranging from $0 - approximately $1.50 per student per year over the last 10 years have left most school libraries across the state with collections far below the standards for size and average age.

 Rock Quarry Elementary values reading deeply and is thankful for board leadership in calling attention to this great need faced by our school library. Although the school has always placed a strong emphasis on literacy, this focus on improving the library collection will help boost reading engagement and achievement.

 “We want all of our students to be excited to read.  Nothing is more exciting than being the first to check out a new library book.  Providing new books, that students want to read, improves literacy and enhances learning beyond the classroom" says Amelia Pilsch, librarian.

Strong Libraries; Strong Schools is a tiered giving campaign with recommended gifts ranging from $20 - $1,000.  In addition, the board is seeking 18 “Champions of Literacy” to make large, one-time donations to name each school library.  Online donations to the campaign can be made at www.tuscaloosacityschools.com/libraries.  More information about the campaign is available by contacting any board member or the Office of Special Programs at 205.759.3722.

 Our school board members have launched this initiative to support all TCS school libraries. Join us in this work to make Rock Quarry's library one of the best in the state! Find out more and donate at www.tuscaloosacityschools.com/libraries