Library, services for teens are often less than stellar. Although some libraries offer young adults wonderful programs and vibrant, inviting spaces, even the American Library Association admits that adolescents tend to be an "underserved" group. This article discusses what libraries can do to make them more meaningful to teens.

One size does not fit all. For anyone who has ever tried to make something fit (especially when it won't), it's best to realize that the word "all" does not really mean "everyone." The same thing is true for subscription databases. While it might seem that all students in grades K-12 can benefit from the use of the database contents, in reality,…

Every dollar counts in today's school libraries, where a resource is evaluated not just by the cost, but also by how many students will utilize it. A recent survey shows that many school librarians rely on their state to help provide (and pay for) databases that their students can access from the school media center or at their public library.…

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.…

Defines dyslexia, the most common reading disability. Discusses the multisensory approach to working with learning-disabled children. Discusses how public libraries can develop services and collections to address the needs of learning-disabled populations. Includes a list of learning-disability information sources, organizations, and books on…

Discusses the librarian's role as copyright adviser and offers five guidelines that are applicable to school or public librarians, including ensuring access to information; digital technology, the need for copyright exceptions, and the importance of staying informed; user rights; promoting fair use; and considering the source of copyright…

Designed for use by public and school librarians as a starting point in developing educational programs, this annotated list of resources on Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) includes pamphlets, films and video, fiction and non-fiction books, posters, organizations, and hotlines. The importance of AIDS education programs is emphasized.…

Discusses the increase in online plagiarism and what school librarians can do to help. Topics include the need for school district policies on plagiarism; teaching students what plagiarism is; pertinent Web sites; teaching students proper research skills; motivation for cheating; and requiring traditional sources of information for student…

Discusses important considerations for library media specialists creating a virtual-resources-collection policy, including selecting the right resources, navigating licensing fees, and free, searchable online sources. A sidebar lists resources for evaluating Web sites and places that lead to recommended sites for students. (AEF)

Discusses the high school history curriculum and the use of primary sources that reveal women's lives and roles in U.S. history. Highlights include the role of the school library media specialist in making materials available; teacher resistance; the use of video; and an annotated bibliography of 42 sources for additional information. (three…

Describes scenarios that justify the need for a middle school librarian. Services provided to users, including students, student teachers, guidance counselors, teachers, and parents are discussed; and appropriate responses provided by a librarian, including information sources, reference interviews, online searches, interlibrary loans,…