Don Callejon School Librarian Supports the Northside Branch Library

Mim Ostenso, Teacher Librarian at Don Callejon School in a letter to the Santa Clara City Council dated March 18, 2008:

Since Don Callejon School opened in September, 2007, there has been a steady increase in the use of our school library after hours. It is clear that members of the community need library materials for their families and a space for reading and studying. The parents encourage and support the reading habits of their children. I know that a public library in this community would be used and supported extensively.

The Don Callejon School Library is not open on weekdays after 4:00 PM, on weekends, or during school vacations. A local public library in Rivermark would give community members of all ages access to books and other information and entertainment media throughout the year at hours outside of the school library.

The main purpose of the Don Callejon library is to support the school curriculum and provide instruction in reading and other information literacy skills. The funding cannot provide an extensive recreational reading collection above and beyond what is needed for its primary purpose. Only a nearby public library can serve this need.

I would love to be able to tell parents, grandparents, and caretakers of preschool students who often stop by the library to check out materials that there is a public library within walking distance instead of just, I'm sorry, we don't have what you need.