There are fewer school libraries, but only one student group is affected

Australia's government school students lack access to libraries as wealthier independent and Catholic schools maintain well-resourced facilities. South Australia's 2024 census found only 15 percent of schools have qualified teacher librarians, down from 23 percent in 2019. Research shows students with qualified librarians achieve higher literacy outcomes, widening educational gaps between disadvantaged and affluent students.

Summary by Glance · Brisbane Times