Raising Scholars Episode 378: The Library Isn't Optional Anymore: A Reading Crisis Reality Check

Aired on Oct 20, 2026


Your child can read. But when was the last time they picked up a book just because they wanted to?

Jacquie Langworthy sits down with Sarah Johnston, a library media specialist and former classroom teacher who has watched kids grow from not reading yet to reading on their own. Together, they talk about what's really behind falling reading scores, and why a child who knows how to read isn't always a child who wants to.

Sarah explains why the library matters more than ever and shares a simple way to choose books your child will actually connect with. Stay to the end for the one thing Sarah says matters most, plus a question from Jacquie that might change how you see reading in your home this week.

Timestamps

00:05 Introduction

01:20 Meet our Guest

03:00 From Classroom Teacher to Library Media Specialist

04:27 Literacy and Student Engagement

07:11 Working with Early Learners and Building Relationships

09:56 Reading Scores and the Impact of Screens

13:35 Encouraging Reading at Home: Tips for Parents

17:03 Exploring the Library with Your Child

19:44 Books as Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Doors

22:32 Key Takeaways for Parents

24:19 Final Thoughts

If this made you rethink your next library trip, pass it along to a parent who could use the nudge.

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