Should the Library Stay Open Later? — English 8: Trust, Community & Responsibility

Source A — Student petition (fictional): Our library closes at 4 p.m., just as the activity buses arrive. Students need a quiet place to read and use computers. In a voluntary survey of 60 students outside the library, 45 wanted a later closing. We request a six-week trial ending at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Staff should record attendance so the school can evaluate the trial.

Source B — Librarian’s response (fictional): I support access, but a later closing requires a paid adult, building supervision, and a bus plan. The survey reached students already interested in the library; it does not estimate demand among all 600 students. Last year, an after-school club attracted 12 regular participants. That club was not advertised widely. A trial with clear staffing costs and an attendance log would give us better evidence.

Source C — Budget note (fictional): For this exercise, supervision costs $30 an hour. Two extra hours on two days each week for six weeks cost $720. This estimate excludes transport, cleaning, and unexpected absences. A grant of $500 is available only for reading materials, not wages.