Urgent Cuts: Over 30 Library Positions Axed in New Brunswick

UPDATE: Over 30 library positions have been abruptly eliminated in the Anglophone West School District, shocking staff and students alike. This drastic decision, driven by a need to cut $9.2 million from the district’s budget, was announced without prior discussions about its impact on education.

Christine Silliphant, a dedicated librarian at Hartland Community School for the past seven years, expressed her disbelief as she sorted through heartfelt notes from students that marked the end of her fulfilling career. “What about the library? What about the kids? What are we going to do?” she recalled asking her principal, who had no answers.

The decision to eliminate library positions was communicated to district officials on April 4, 2023. Following a series of confidential briefings, layoff notices were unexpectedly distributed less than a month later, leaving library workers in the dark. Silliphant described the moment as “blowing your mind,” emphasizing the lack of communication regarding the library’s critical role in student development.

Documents obtained by CBC News reveal that the calculations leading to these layoffs were rushed, failing to consider the detrimental effects on students’ learning experiences. Despite a 150-page report containing appeals from parents and community members to reconsider the cuts, no substantial analysis of the impact on student literacy and support was presented.

Julie Kilcollins, acting director of schools for Anglophone West, acknowledged that discussions about the impact on students had not taken place prior to issuing layoff letters. Student journalist Connor Barry, who sought clarification on the situation, described the response he received as a “boilerplate,” lacking the human touch necessary for such a impactful issue. “It’s utterly shocking that they would make decisions that catastrophically impact this province’s youth without even discussions being had,” Barry stated.

The abrupt decision has raised concerns about the future of educational support in New Brunswick, especially in light of the province’s already low literacy rates. Parents and students alike are voicing their fears over the loss of vital resources. Silliphant noted that her library was a hub for students, with 12,000 books checked out in the last year alone, underscoring the significant role libraries play in fostering a love for reading.

Union representatives are also expressing their discontent. Theresa McAllister, president of Local 2745 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), criticized the lack of foresight and communication from the district. “Somebody had to know this was coming down but never reached out to say this was happening outside of the normal layoffs at year end,” she said.

Despite the devastating news, Silliphant remains hopeful for a reconsideration of the cuts, stating, “People make mistakes. I would hope that they see this as a mistake down the line.” As she prepares to explore new opportunities, including educational assistant roles and potential supply teaching, her heart remains with the students she served.

The situation is still developing, and parents, staff, and students are urged to advocate for the restoration of library services. With the decision already having a profound impact, community members are calling for immediate action to address the educational void left by these layoffs. The future of school libraries in New Brunswick hangs in the balance as the community seeks answers and a path forward.