The document discusses the need for school librarians to communicate the value of libraries as school budgets face major cuts. It provides background on funding cuts in Illinois and increasing academic standards. School librarians must show how libraries directly impact student achievement by aligning programs to standards and strategic plans. Data should be collected on metrics like test scores comparing students who use the library regularly versus those who don't. The focus should be on how libraries allow students to learn and achieve rather than on the libraries themselves.