Reinstatements denied to library techs

Written by Judy Wu

The Fremont board of education meeting Dec. 9 decided that library media technicians should not be restored to their previous positions. Board members addressed the issue of restoring surplus money to library media technicians at every high school and information officer, who maintains the district’s web page. Library media technician Leslie DiFranco and library information specialist Kristen Marie attended the meeting.

Board of education president Larry Sweeney, Jr., thought restoring library media technicians and information officers would benefit schools.

Yet, board of education clerk, Bryan Gebhardt, wanted to talk about restoring library media technicians and information officer with other budget issues later at night. DiFranco and Marie stayed after midnight until the topic was finally brought up again.

“Assistant superintendent of human resources, Steve Betando, made it seem like it was a difficult process to restore library media technicians and a new information officer. I don’t think it is as complicated as he thinks it is,” Marie said.

Despite Sweeney’s support, only two of five members voted to restore the positions, leaving the situation as is. DiFranco and Marie were unhappy about the decision.

“Last year when budget cuts were made for transportation, counselors and libraries, the board said they would first restore them back when there was more money, but they did not keep their promise,” Marie said.

Junior high and elementary school libraries don’t share these problems. They have the School Library Improvement Block Grant as a source of funds. This award helps junior high and elementary schools help maintain longer library hours.

It is difficult for DiFranco and Marie to handle the library alone without each other. Marie and DiFranco switch places between Washington and American’s library every week.

“It is hard to handle approximately 250 kids in the library. I can’t even go to the bathroom during lunch. If Mrs. DiFranco was here, it would be much easier,” Marie said.