Minister for Education and Science, Batt O'Keeffe, TD, has announced the extension of the Junior Certificate Support Programme (JCSP) Demonstration Library Project for ten more post primary schools as part of the DEIS Action Plan (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools).

There are now 31 second level schools that have benefited from this initiative. The Demonstration Library Project began in 2001 as part of the Department of Education and Science Early Literacy Initiative to provide literacy and numeracy support for students.

Introduced in 1996, the JCSP is aimed at providing support for Junior Certificate students who are experiencing difficulty or who may be at risk of leaving school early.

Announcing the extension of the Demonstration Library Project, Minister O'Keeffe said "this initiative is just one in a broad range of supports this Government has introduced to provide additional supports for children who are at risk of leaving school early. These students need extra help to make the most of the opportunities available to them in school."

The JCSP Demonstration Library project puts in place high quality, fully stocked and equipped modern libraries and provides each with a professional librarian. As part of the induction programme into the Project each school receives funding, professional development and guidance in the setting up of a school library.

Minister O'Keeffe went on to say "these are not ordinary school libraries, they are creative, active learning centres which aim to stimulate interest in the student. The JCSP Libraries are welcoming, comfortable, exciting and dynamic learning spaces and are stocked with an exciting collection of carefully chosen books and other resources designed to entice and engage the most reluctant teenager.

"While prioritising literacy development of JCSP students, the libraries also provide a service to the whole school including well stocked teacher resource sections."

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