The School District of Philadelphia has 217 public schools and only four certified librarians, but universities and nonprofits are stepping up to help fill the gap, writes Ella Lathan for The 74.

Due to staffing issues as well as the lack of resources, many of the libraries that are part of the public school system are not able to operate at full capacity. Teachers and volunteers have been working hard to ensure students have access.  

However, now they are receiving help from a number of groups around Philadelphia filled with volunteers who also want to make a difference.

For example, Read By 4th is an early literacy movement that is supported by over 150 partner organizations, as well as parents, volunteers, and community members. It provides resources to both students and parents.

Among universities, Temple University has been trying to offer additional support for public school libraries in its surrounding community.

“Part of this for us is about trying to do a little bit of equity work, [to] create more access to the things that make a difference when you are curious, or ambitious, intellectually or creatively,” said Temple Dean of Libraries Joseph Lucia.

Read more about the librarian shortage in The 74.

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