Describes a project for middle school librarians to use to motivate students to read for pleasure. Explains activities based on the idea of a mystery at the school, and describes how clues were developed and linked to books in certain genres that students had to read. (LRW)

Discusses how to plan for successful author or illustrator visits to school libraries. Topics addressed include preparing students by acquainting them with the visitor's works; how to contact authors or illustrators; written letters of confirmation; arranging for copies of books for autographing; scheduling; and follow-up. (LRW)

Discusses how school librarians can use self-interest to increase their influence with the principal. Topics include demonstrating how the library can help; providing pertinent information; increasing interaction with the principal; accuracy and speed of providing information; helpful Web sites; and organizing and presenting the information. (LRW)

Provides tips for designing effective training programs for library assistants. Discusses general points to consider; acquainting new assistants with the library; and assigning jobs that reflect assistants' interests. Suggests special projects for assistants including: arranging displays; cataloging; covering paperback and hardback books;…

Describes the planning and implementation of a computerized writing center that is located in a high school library. Cooperation between the librarian and the classroom teacher is discussed; various writing assignments and the role of the librarian are described; and library services to teachers that support the writing center are explained. (LRW)

Presents suggestions for library media center advocacy at the grass roots level. Discusses spring ordering and inclusion of staff, new materials, Internet resources, bookmarks, networking, establishing rapport with students, encouraging return of materials, media center as study area during final exams, graduation, attending Board of Education…

Examines innovative ways for school libraries to collect organize, and make effective use of student work. Highlights include recognizing original work; student writing; student posters of favorite books or characters; databases for organizing information; videotaping of students' activities and presentations; electronic products; events;…

Describes the Special Training and Employment (STEP) program at South Brunswick (New Jersey) High School Library, a job-training program for students with developmental disabilities. Presents scenarios that illustrate student workers' experiences. Discusses the importance of cooperation, program costs and budgeting, and benefits of the program.…

Outlines the pros and cons for preparing a mini-collection of school library resources in advance and for having students locate their own resources. Discusses collection use, library/information skills, and facilities management for all possibilities. (AEF)

Identifies factors that influence parental involvement and describes ways that school librarians can help parents gain the skills needed to support their children's technological learning. Describes levels of parental involvement and possible obstacles; working one-on-one, including parent volunteers; and community-wide outreach education about…

Discussion of block scheduling in secondary schools focuses on its impact on the school library media center. Discusses increased demand for library services, scheduling classes, the impact on librarians' time, teaching information technology, local area networks, and the increased pace of activity. (LRW)

Six articles on the use of audiovisual materials in the school library media center cover how to develop an audiovisual production center; audiovisual forms; a checklist for effective video/16mm use in the classroom; slides in learning; hazards of videotaping in the library; and putting audiovisuals on the shelf. (EJS)

This theme section includes four articles that discuss building a stronger image for junior and senior high school libraries through public relations. Highlights include building the influence of high school librarians; making the library more welcoming for students; information for transfer students; and publicizing student achievements through a…

Suggested public relations activities for school libraries are presented in nine articles. Some of the activities described include the publication of newsletters and filmdisks using microcomputer software, a celebrity letter campaign, and planned communication with school board members. Resources for further ideas and guidelines are provided.…

Presents a strategy for completing a library media center policy review, from evaluating existing policies through submitting policies to the school board for approval. Special attention is paid to issues related to the use of new technologies in middle and high school library media centers, including student/faculty technology use, circulation,…