Be a detective. In order to find out what is planned, talk to your principal/supervisor. Read Board of Education meeting agendas and minutes. See what you can find out from volunteers, parents, colleagues, local association representatives.

1. When space may be taken away or used for another purpose:
1. Ask when you will be providing input
2. Gather and organize data on how space is used and what impact loss will have on program
3. Communicate proposed change with the teachers who use the library and discuss potential impact on their use of the facility/learning environment of students
4. If change/loss will have an adverse impact on your working conditions (terms and conditions of employment) get your local education association representative involved
5. Carefully select articulate, informed, unemotional, highly-regarded spokespersons as needed
1. PTA or PTO officer
2. Family liaison (esp. Abbott districts)
3. Student volunteer or student council officer
4. District or building administrator or supervisor
5. Another librarian who lives or works in the district
6. Provide necessary resources to your advocates
1. Letters or brief presentations (See FacilityTemplates)
2. Suggested Responses to Frequently Asked Questions (See FacilityQuestions)
3. Handouts (brochures, fliers, etc.)*You may wish to provide your own paper and supplies and time to create these materials
7. Be aware that even though advocacy at this point may not affect the outcome of this particular situation the record of your efforts may have a positive effect on the future of the school library program.
2. When an addition/renovation is planned for the space and you should provide input:
1. Gather and carefully organize data on how space can be used, as well as important layout and technology considerations. Remember to emphasize the need to be able to supervise student activity in the facility.
2. Send the information to your supervisor/building principal and offer to answer any questions or provide additional information.
3. Follow up by staying informed and keeping a dialogue with your supervisor/building principal.
3. When a construction project involves a joint school-public library facility

(Move information over from web site)