In this article, the author discusses how to transform a down-on-its-luck library into an irresistible place for boys. She suggests to begin with vision, energy, and a lot of hard work. Based on the author's 30-plus years of experience working with students, she knows boys respond well to a scholarly environment. In fact, it is one of the ways…

Presents a compilation of school library media certification requirements taken from responses to a national survey. For each state, existing certificates or endorsements are listed, along with credit hours and/or experience required, whether it is an accredited or approved program, and required subject areas or competencies. A directory of…

This year's "School Library Journal's" spending survey showed that, despite the recession, the vast majority of media centers around the country have retained their credentialed media specialists. For example, almost 85% of elementary schools and more than 95% of middle and high schools have a full-time certified librarian. In addition, salaries…

Comments that library media specialists have not been adequately utilized in schools, especially at the elementary level. Reasons why the library should be an integral part of the instructional program are discussed, and several ways in which the librarian, as a generalist, can aid students in academic achievement are listed. (MES)

Describes a study sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education which identified 62 outstanding library programs and lists 22 model school library programs and 16 programs serving school systems. Topics discussed include the search process, selection criteria, school library programs, cooperation, innovations, technology, and the catalog that…

Two authors of children's books discuss the elements of a successful school visit, including how to select and contact an author; fees; choosing dates; having books available; planning collaboratively with authors, principals, teachers, and parents; organizing the schedule; the author as critic; publicity; travel plans; autographs; and follow-up.…

This annotated bibliography lists children's books by Australian authors selected to provide American libraries with books that reflect many facets of Australian life as well as the work of Australia's many authors. The list is arranged by grade level, including pre-school and primary, grades three to six, and junior high and up. (EM)

Discusses the use of literature in the whole-language approach. Examples show the integration of a second grader's experiences with the curriculum; integrating the language arts in the middle school via study of the author as well as the book; and the integration of literature into the study of history. Titles to use in each area are suggested.…

This project designed to teach library and thinking skills to grade 7 students emphasized the importance of metacognition. Students were asked to choose a research topic and to prepare and evaluate daily research strategies. Allotment of time for planning and reflecting on strategies was considered crucial to the project. (MES)

Reviews the literature of the critical thinking/problem solving approach to learning and discusses how these concepts relate to teaching research skills. Two activities designed to teach critical thinking and research skills in the context of grades 5 and 6 social studies are summarized. (2 references) (MES)

Argues that librarians who wish to build effective video collections need to know what is available and negotiate with distributors for multiple copies and lower prices. Purchasing practices of a school system and a public library are described, including adherence to copyright law. Duplication rights and off-air taping are explained. (EM)

Describes common problems with signs used in school libraries and offers suggestions for improving their effectiveness. Techniques to be considered in designing legible signs are discussed, as well as developing a system of signs by evaluating their function in terms of instructional objectives. A list of suggested readings is provided. (CLB)

Discusses the art of storytelling for librarians, focusing on programing trends, stage fright, and selecting stories. Several books and videotapes providing storytelling instruction or suggested stories are described. An annotated bibliography of eight items is included. (MES)

Reports the results of a survey which examined the availability and use of comic books in school libraries and the attitudes of librarians, teachers, and administrators toward such materials. A selected bibliography of articles that discuss the use of comic books as instructional materials is provided. (CLB)

An elementary school librarian initiated a survey of school librarians in Arizona to discover how they dealt with problems in scheduling classes in their media centers and developing curriculum to teach library skills. Results were used to support proposed changes to provide more flexible scheduling and increase teacher/librarian cooperation. (EM)