Library Go, a partnership between the schools and library launches for all secondary students today, followed by primary school students early next year
SAINT PAUL - The Saint Paul Public Library (SPPL) and Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) launched Library Go today, providing instant access to the library's resources for more than 16,000 SPPS secondary school students. Library Go expands to all 38,000 SPPS students in early 2017 and will be the largest virtual library access program of its kind in the state.
"This joint venture between Saint Paul Public Schools and the City of St. Paul will allow learners of all ages to use a virtual internet superhighway and experience the wonders of the world without leaving St. Paul," said SPPS Superintendent John Thein.
With Library Go, SPPS students will have seamless access to the library’s digital resources, including online homework help, dozens of databases, free music downloads, e-books, and countless other resources. The library is also pleased to offer students the ability to check out up to five physical items using their virtual card. These resources will help support students’ success both in the classroom and beyond.
Today’s event at Johnson High School, attended by Mayor Chris Coleman, SPPS Superintendent John Thein along with other school and library officials is the culmination of the City of Saint Paul's and SPPS' commitment to President Obama's ConnectED Library Challenge. The President’s call was for city officials, library directors, and schools to collaborate more closely to expand access to the nation's public libraries.
“This partnership between our libraries and public schools is an important step toward addressing the achievement gap through greater access to and expanded use of library resources,”said Saint Paul Mayor Chris Coleman. “Library Go is a powerful example of what can be accomplished when two vital public institutions work together with the success of our students firmly in mind.”
SPPL and SPPS have been collaborating on this initiative since September 2015.
Find more information about Library Go at www.stpaul.gov and librarygo.org.
Media Contacts:
Chase Maxwell, Saint Paul Public Library
Chase.Maxwell@ci.stpaul.mn.us, 651-266-7022
Toya Stewart Downey, Saint Paul Public Schools
ToyaStewart.Downey@spps.org, 651-767-8104
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