Bestselling Author James Patterson Urges Support for Reed–Cochran Amendment to ESEA

With permission from the American Library Association

Today the United States Senate will begin debate on modifications to and reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), the federal government’s primary education law. One of the first amendments under consideration is a bipartisan proposal by Senators Jack Reed (D–RI) and Thad Cochran (R–MS) that directly supports school library programs across the country.

The Reed–Cochran Amendment would explicitly authorize local school districts to use ESEA funds to develop and maintain effective school library programs that place certified school librarians at their core. This targeted language aims to protect and expand access to high-quality library services for students in every state.

This amendment has already attracted important backing: Senator Lamar Alexander (R–TN), chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, has supported the underlying bill (S. 1177, the Every Child Achieves Act of 2015) that the HELP Committee unanimously approved. Even with that support, the Reed–Cochran Amendment needs additional votes on the Senate floor—reports indicated it still required roughly 48 more votes to pass at the time the amendment was being considered.

Research consistently shows that effective school library programs contribute to stronger student outcomes. Schools with well-resourced libraries and certified librarians tend to see improved reading achievement, higher grades, better performance on standardized assessments, and stronger preparation for postsecondary education and workforce readiness. Those benefits extend across diverse communities, including schools in urban, suburban, and rural settings.

The Reed–Cochran language is designed to provide practical assistance: it would enable local education agencies and schools to use federal education funding to build library programs that develop students’ digital literacy, critical research skills, and overall readiness for college and careers—helping to ensure graduates enter postsecondary education or the workforce without the need for remediation.

Why this matters now

School libraries are more than book collections. They are learning hubs where certified librarians teach students how to find, evaluate, and use information responsibly in a digital age. They support classroom instruction across subjects and help close opportunity gaps by providing equitable access to resources, technology, and instruction.

At a time when many school districts must make difficult budget choices, federal authorization that explicitly permits ESEA funding for school library development can make a decisive difference. It offers districts a clear, legal pathway to invest in sustained, effective library services that directly support student learning goals.

Call to action

Bestselling author James Patterson and the American Library Association are asking supporters to contact their U.S. senators and urge a “YES” vote on the Reed–Cochran Amendment to S. 1177. A brief call or message to a senator’s office can make an immediate impact: request that the senator vote in favor of the amendment so school districts can use federal funds to create and maintain strong school library programs staffed by certified librarians.

When you call, simply state: “Please ask the Senator to vote YES on the Reed–Cochran Amendment to S. 1177 to support effective school library programs.” The appeal is straightforward, but collective action matters—especially during floor debate.

About James Patterson’s support for school libraries

James Patterson has provided notable grants and support to school libraries and literacy initiatives. News outlets have covered his contributions and the impact of the grants on school library programs. Those interested in learning more can consult reputable news coverage from major outlets that reported on his donations and their effects on schools nationwide.

Now is the time to speak up for students, teachers, and librarians. Ensuring that school library programs receive clear authorization for federal support helps strengthen the educational infrastructure that prepares young people for success in college, careers, and civic life.

Act today: Contact your U.S. senators and urge them to vote YES on the Reed–Cochran Amendment to S. 1177 in order to support effective, librarian-led school library programs across the nation.