Loss of librarians at 30 schools hits students

THE loss of library staff at 30 schools in some of the country’s poorest communities could lead to more children dropping out of education, teachers have claimed.

Terence MacSwiney Community College in Knocknaheeny on Cork’s northside is one of those schools which was equipped with an upgraded library three years ago in an effort to improve literacy skills.

But the dedicated librarians who were employed to ensure the facilities are put to best use have now learned their contracts will not be renewed.