Looks at collection development for print materials in school libraries serving children in grades K-8. The policy statement and the processes of evaluation, selection, acquisition, and weeding are examined, emphasizing the place of curriculum objectives and the role of the librarian. Twenty-two references and a bibliography of 15 selection tools…

Argues that school libraries should maintain a commitment to encourage reading and have concern for the enrichment of the individual's imaginative and creative life. Describes a variety of ways the school libraries in the United Kingdom promote reading. (RS)

Presents an example of a censorship attempt in the Detroit (Michigan) Public School System. The titles that were challenged are listed; the role of the book selection committee is discussed; help from outside organizations is described; and tips for dealing with censors are provided. (LRW)

Discusses the link between adequately developed, current school library collections and better student achievement and highlights the importance of having students become successful critical readers. Offers suggestions for encouraging reading, including knowing the materials in the collection, knowing the students to meet their needs, building on…

This content analysis examines library science and education literature on censorship in public and public school libraries in the 1980s. The first chapter discusses the organization and activities of right-wing and left-wing pressure groups together with ways in which librarians have responded to their pressure. The distinction between censorship…

Discusses the role of school libraries in literacy and independent reading habits for adolescents. Highlights include the sad state of school libraries in Indiana, how much to spend on books for middle grades school libraries, the time frame for rebuilding school library collections, and the Reading Bill of Rights. Sample inventory procedures and…

Describes the censure of the Racine Unified School District by the Wisconsin Library Association for its internal censorship of library materials. Highlights include a chronology of events in the case, the district's history of censorship, its selection policy, and the importance of the case as a model. (EM)

Reports on the IFLA Pre-Session Seminar on international issues in school librarianship (Caldes de Montbui, Spain, August 1993). Summarizes papers dealing with the role of school libraries in developing countries; selection and acquisitions; management and financial support; and country reports on the school library situation. Also includes…

The feasibility of combining school and public libraries in Fairfax, Virginia was studied. Case studies were made of attempts by 23 localities in 12 states to combine school and public libraries. Several surveys were conducted to compile applicable laws, regulations, and standards. Four statistical tables were prepared which display information…

For some years, groups like the Council on Interracial Books for Children (CIBC) have been urging librarians to take a second look at children's books previously regarded as classics and to evaluate them in the light of the new consciousness which acknowledges the oppression of Third World peoples and women. On January 29, 1973, the Board of…

Discusses problem areas in the development of school libraries in Nigeria, including lack of legislation, shortage of funds, poor accommodations, unavailability of trained staff, lack of relevant material, and apathy on the part of school administrators and the government. Recommendations for improving this situation are suggested. (17 references)…

This paper discusses changes at the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) and suggests changes in the role of the school librarian, by way of a shift from a traditional helping role to a leadership role. Because librarians have knowledge of the whole curriculum, they are in a unique position to lead the way for teachers and to help them…

This book addresses issues currently facing library media specialists. It is a collection of case studies designed for both the beginning and the experienced professional. The 48 cases cover all types of schools (elementary, middle, and high schools; public, private, or parochial in urban, suburban, and rural communities) and examine four basic…

The first part of a two-part review of research related to school library media collections summarizes studies with implications for budgets and collection size, the selection process, collection policies, and the librarian as censor. A table compares data on holdings and expenditures for schools providing high-level library service with national…