This paper examines the purpose and history of the school library in the United States, and specifically in California, and discusses concerns and issues that need to be addressed to ensure that school libraries have a place in the future. The paper concludes that excellent school librarians are essential in ensuring that all young people have access to the reading materials that will help them become literate; school libraries must be at the core of any school plan to improve reading skills. School reform is needed to assist the declining library collections and services, especially at the elementary and junior high schools. Research shows that the size of a school's library staff and collection is a strong predictor of academic achievement. More funding is necessary to provide these resources. Recommendations are listed for: community support, funding, library collection development, needs of limited English students, reading, staff, materials selection, and communication. (Contains 61 references.) (AEF)