Discusses the effects of the creation-evolution controversy on school libraries. Addresses two main questions: (1) whether a school library is required to purchase or accept donations of books presenting "creation science" or "arguments against evolution"; and (2) how to evaluate the appropriateness of creationist books. (WRM)

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…

Presents the research finding that collection development based on sound principles can ensure both better quality materials and increased use by teachers and students. Findings suggesting that collection development should be a cooperative enterprise framed by board- and school-approved guidelines are listed. (seven references) (EA)

Discusses the need for written collection policies in learning resources centers as a defense against censorship and as a collection planning device. A model collection policy is reviewed, with emphasis on the sections and wording that bear directly on censorship and intellectual freedom. (8 references) (CLB)

Developed as part of a statewide coordinated collection development effort, this document is a compendium of the narrative statements of collection development policies from 19 Alaskan university, public, school, and special libraries. Only the basic narrative plus any unique appendices are included for each policy, and some of the policies are…

For many years, there has been pressure on American schools to restrict or deny students access to books or periodicals deemed objectionable by some individual or group on moral, political, religious, ethnic, racial, or philosophical grounds. Censorship of library books in school media centers is present today. The library media specialist is…

Discusses teenage pregnancy and sexuality and suggests ways in which librarians can help provide access to appropriate and needed information. Highlights include developing policies and procedures for dealing with sexual issues, collection development, organizing information and making it accessible, and a brief teen pregnancy bibliography. (LRW)

Suggests school library media specialists should be responsible for promoting the integration of technology into education. Topics include resource allocation in the past; school library funding; the political climate and educational planning; technology teachers; library policies; and librarian and teacher cooperation. Provides a list of…

Articles from "Library Talk" and "The Book Report" on school library management about setting goals, long-range planning, and the day-to-day operation of a school library are collected in looseleaf notebook format for the convenience of the librarian. Each section begins with a general discussion of the topic, followed by selected articles.…

Identifies library collection development as a high-priority activity and discusses collection development needs in terms of training, library policies and planning, resource assessment, and coordination among libraries. A method used for assessing collections and allocating resources is described. (CLB)

Discusses staff development opportunities for school librarians and teachers to improve skills in meeting the needs of disabled students. Discusses results of a four-year study which evaluated school library services to disabled students in Australia and emphasizes the need for staff development programs that include policy formation, collection…

Selection and evaluation of electronic resources have prompted school librarians and media specialists to examine collection development guidelines and procedures. This article discusses criteria for selection and evaluation of CD-ROMs to meet the needs of the library, teachers, students, and curriculum. Includes forms for courseware description…

This document presents a collection of papers to be used as a practical guide and reference for delivering library services to small rural schools. The document targets rural school teachers, new school librarians, county superintendents, and rural and small school boards of trustees. Papers cover: (1) issues related to library administration,…

While the general principles and techniques of collection development can be applied to most libraries, the unique characteristics of each media program produce new and changing demands requiring flexibility and creativity. Concepts from curriculum theory, children's and adolescent literature, educational technology, and library science are…