As the ranks of educators on Twitter grow, more and more are heard about the importance of their "PLNs" (a term reportedly coined by educational technology guru David Warlick). A PLN, or Personal Learning Network, is a group of like-minded professionals with whom one can exchange ideas, advice, and resources. So why shouldn't students have PLNs 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…

The Network Information Specialists at AskERIC, an Internet-based information service for teachers, library media specialists, administrators, and others involved in education select and deliver information resources to the information seeker within 48 hours. A sampling of questions and responses is provided in the format of a representative day.…

The library, as we once knew it, may no longer be relevant. And, yet, this is undoubtedly the most exciting time in history to be a librarian. The future of the school library as a relevant and viable institution is largely dependent on librarians and how quickly they respond to change. They worry about their field and their practice. They worry…

Discusses the planning and installation of a high school local area network. Highlights include suggestions for: defining goals, applying for funding, coordinating installation, teacher training, developing district technology plans, plans for growth, choosing locations, maintenance plans, system security, system backup, and use studies. (JKP)

Addresses the issue of student access to inappropriate materials on the Internet. Topics discussed include school library policies; the role of parents; public library concerns; access to information; and a sample technical code of conduct for high schools. (seven references) (LRW)

Describes the development of INFOhio, a state-wide effort that is tying together Ohio's public and private school libraries in an online network. Highlights include electronic resources; training for librarians and teachers; a union catalog; choice of vendors; and the need for further funding. (LRW)

Describes the Star Schools program, a federally funded project designed to serve as a model for using technology to reach small or disadvantaged schools in isolated areas. The discussion covers the objectives of the project, the use of telecommunications technology and computer networks, and the current and future role of library media specialists…

Reports the results of three statewide studies in Alaska, Colorado, and Pennsylvania, which show that a school library media program with a full-time library media specialist, support staff, and a strong computer network leads to higher student achievement as evidenced on standardized achievement tests. (LRW)

Describes a two-year Technology for Teaching Project linking high school students on Montana's Crow Indian Reservation with other students in the United States and abroad through AT&T Learning Network's Learning Circles. Topics include project organization, materials exchanged with other schools, issues covered in online student discussions,…

Discusses the restructuring of the Mankato, Minnesota school media program, accomplished by merging library and technology programs. Addresses time frame; necessary equipment and resources; computer networking; scheduled in-service training; and involvement of parents, teachers, and the school board. A sidebar lists five elements vital to a…

Describes LM-NET, a listserv discussion group designed primarily for school library media specialists. The listserv's background, growth, uses, users, and future developments are covered. Special features include instructions for accessing past discussions. Sidebars present sample LM-NET messages and subscription and retrieval information. (KRN)

Describes the results of a survey of school librarians that investigated satisfaction with their selection of library automation systems. Discusses purchasing decisions; networking; Web-based systems; user friendliness; efficiency and usability; vendor integrity; technical support; training; documentation; authority control; links to Internet…