Today media centers provide students the opportunity to learn and explore subjects of their interest in depth. The media center is the largest classroom in the school providing service to every student and every teacher in all curricular areas. The library should be a place to encourage students' interests and a place to broaden their horizons by…

This article talks about selection policy and provides suggestions on how library media specialists can update their selection policies to provide an atmosphere that facilitate inquiry. The selection policy is meant to ensure that the collection meets the needs of the school community as comprehensively and effectively as possible. Instead of…

In compliance with Section 59-31-10 of the 1976 School Laws of South Carolina, this document provides a bibliography of standard lists that media specialists, teachers, and administrators may use as a guide for reviewing and selecting instructional materials for elementary and secondary public school library media centers. Sources of selection…

Describes how to use effective signage, or visual guidance, for more efficient use of CD-ROM technology in elementary and secondary school library media centers. Setting CD-ROM policies and procedures is considered; the use of posters, brochures, flowcharts, and other formats is discussed; and examples are included. (LRW)

Discusses high school library policies and services that reflect the needs of students, including: collections that include computer programs, audio and videocassettes; access to information by students; and information and reference services offered to students. (CLB)

Reviews the literature in library and information science to identify factors that influence the outcome of challenges to school library materials. A conceptual model is developed that encompasses district selection policy, librarian characteristics, school environment, community environment, and initiator of the challenge, and tentative…

Summarizes the results of a national study of library media material challenges in secondary public school libraries that was conducted during the 1989-90 school year. Factors that influence whether challenges to library media materials resulted in retention, restriction, or removal of materials are identified. (LRW)

Points out some of the library media center policies that have changed because of technology. Highlights include the following: standards-based policies, legal issues, key American Library Association policies from the 1998 Information Power guidelines, suggestions for creating policies, and adoption of policies by the appropriate governing body.…

This guide is designed to assist library media specialists in achieving the outstanding, comprehensive library media program outlined in "Information Power: Building Partnerships for Learning," published by the American Library Association and the Association for Educational Communications and Technology. The guide contains the following…

This book discusses censorship as it affects schools and school library media centers. Chapter 1 is an introduction. Chapter 2 describes who and why some people and organizations object so strongly to some school materials, as well as those organizations that support intellectual freedom. Chapter 3 provides a historical perspective on censorship…

Discusses issues of censorship and intellectual freedom that affect library media specialists and librarians. An annotated list of relevant resource materials is included, and suggestions for further action are given, including examining the library's material selection policy statement and involving students and teachers. (LRW)

Based on a literature review and content analysis of written collection development policies for school libraries in Indiana, a Delphi survey of district-level school media directors in 28 states identified important issues to be addressed in future school library collection development policies. Respondents found copyright guidelines to be an…

Discusses the role of paraprofessionals in secondary school libraries and suggests guidelines for the selection process. Highlights include a sample job description for a library media assistant that includes expectations and responsibilities; the need for adequate training; providing a variety of assignments; and establishing consistent policies.…

The first section of this paper on the school library and the learner discusses policies and the school library. Recommendations are offered related to hours, creating an inviting atmosphere, convenience, collection, computer services, reading material selection, storytelling, and reading aloud. The second section addresses principles of learning…

This presentation investigates the various kinds of services that are needed in school library systems. It relates to the leadership style and organizational needs for small, medium, and large systems at district, regional, or state levels. The content addresses some of the components of the print versions of school library system handbooks and…