The conceptualizing of and structuring of a learning commons shifts both the thinking of what a library media center is as well as its learning imperative in the school. Rather than being defined in terms of collections and instructional activities that focus primarily on an information-centric paradigm--the finding, accessing, and evaluating of…

Political advocacy continues to gain ground in the state of Washington after the landmark Washington state legislative support of emergency funding ($4.09 million) for library media centers during the 2008 legislative session. This stepped-up political advocacy is due to the efforts of the Washington Library Media Association Advocacy members…

Today many library resources are accessible 24/7. Students can be in the classroom, home, or at their favorite fast food place and do what once required a visit to the library. Electronic access to information has become a major part of the culture. No longer are students just watching a 16mm projected film in class; now they can access online…

This article discusses the ongoing effort in the Massachusetts School Library Association (MSLA). Library media specialists who are members of the MSLA have utilized key components to successfully advocate for library media centers in the state of Massachusetts. These key components have resulted in their acquiring seats at important decision…

Briefly defines the concepts of "data,""information," and "knowledge" for the work of school library media specialists. Examines the development of the profession from passive organizers and disseminators of information to active information integrators. Discusses knowledge management and suggests that the profession…

The 65% Solution seems to be in the news on education these days. Some governors have endorsed it, a growing number of legislators are trying to legislate it, and, in more and more states, petitioners are trying to get it on the ballot. Backers want this initiative to be spread across the nation. In short, this movement hinges on a simple, but…

A media specialist discusses methods for promoting a library media program. Highlights include a staff survey; monthly newsletters; community celebrity readings; fund raising; taped cable programs; flexibility; displays; communication with staff, parents, and students; supporting the principal and staff; and having a positive attitude. (AEF)

Discusses four areas in school library media programs that media specialists are expected to develop. Topics include promoting information literacy among students; knowing how to evaluate and use various information technologies; consulting with teachers to strengthen student learning and outcomes; and serving on school-based management…

Examines the Pitts/Stripling model of information literacy, describing its key aspects and showing the relationship between the model and Stripling's vision of the library media center for the twenty-first century. The model promotes caring, student-centered, holistic, humanistic, and realistic library practices that are respectful of the…

Examines new guidelines for library media programs developed by the American Association of School Librarians and the Association for Educational Communications and Technology. Discusses future developments, mission statements, the relationship of information use to standards, the dimensions of library services, and the role of the library media…

Describes the publication of the American Library Association's new school library media program guidelines and standards, "Information Power: Building Partnerships for Learning." Discussion includes the library mission; the constant state of evolution of the library and information services profession; and the importance of standards.…

Presents thought from school library media specialists regarding collection development. Topics include first-year experiences; the importance of cataloging; selection criteria; selection sources; and weeding. (LRW)

Discusses reasons for including sports books in school library reference collections, explains why they should not be found only in public library collections, and provides six annotated bibliographies of sports books suitable for intermediate or middle school library collections. (LRW)

Discusses library collection development by school library media specialists and describes selection sources for new books and materials; retrospective selection sources for materials published in preceding years; and an acquisition source. Provides an overview of the selection process and includes 10 suggestions for selection. (LRW)

Presents information on government publications for school library media specialists, notes problems, and identifies selection aids. Topics include: the "Monthly Catalog" on CD-ROM, the Superintendent of Documents Classification System, GPO bookstores and depository libraries, how to purchase and promote the use of government…