Editorial: Opening up libraries at schools is too risky

Friday, April 4, 2003 | 9:10 a.m.

Clark County students who are part of Assembly Speaker Richard Perkins' Democracy in Action program are advocating state legislation that would mandate high school libraries be open to the public. The students in Perkins' program, which invites high school students in his district to submit proposals for legislation, believe that opening the libraries would double the number of books available to the public and could also improve literacy in the valley.

The plan has merit, but there are serious questions about it. For starters, the Clark County School District estimates the plan's cost to be $5 million a year. At a time of budget constraints, opening up school libraries for everyone isn't a priority when art and music programs are in jeopardy of being cut. There also could be serious problems if adults check out books that students need to complete class assignments. Then there is the issue of public safety. Schools currently are closed campuses, but if they're open for everyone, we'll have to worry about predators taking advantage of the situation.

The students' best argument is that it's impractical for students involved in athletics or other extracurricular activities to use the libraries after the school day is over. That's because, the students note, the libraries shut down before the end of after-school practices or games. In light of the students' concern in that area, we believe the schools should explore the feasibility of extending library hours for students only. And while we may not see eye-to-eye with the students on opening the schools to everyone, it is heartening to see young people take such an avid interest when apathy among adults reigns on public policy issues.