As the Massachusetts School Library Association marked its 50th anniversary in March, the Bay State Banner conducted a survey to assess the state of school libraries. The survey covered 302 of Massachusetts’ 319 public school districts, 52 of 73 charter districts and 221 private schools.

Public school respondents represented 95% of all schools in Massachusetts, operating 1,264 libraries with 1,309 personnel.

Respondents reported 760 state licenses held by librarians. That exceeds the state’s data, suggesting that some districts recognize a variety of credentials for librarians. Many libraries are operated by specialists, aides, assistants or paraprofessionals.

School libraries are uncommon in early grades. Just 33 of 165 primary schools have libraries.

Some schools without libraries ar

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