Answers frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to planning for renovating or building school library media centers (SLMCs). Topics include the role of the school library media specialist, advance planning, importance of a written long-range plan, library consultants, courses on planning, design compromises, planning resources, professional…

Discusses developing bid specifications for facilities projects. Highlights include: the four basic sections of bid specifications (general conditions, specific conditions, table of values, and information about the bidder's company); setting standards for products; determining whether the bidder is qualified to do the work; a sample timeline; and…

A library renovation class was offered to special education and low-income high school students during the summer, including lessons in Dewey Decimal classification, equipment repair and cleaning, and library organization and research skills. Students helped to plan and implement renovation of their school library media center. (MES)

Discusses design elements of a 21st century school library, including space, books and shelving, seats, tables, technology (computers, scanners, projectors), building materials (wood, metal, plastic, paint, glass, fibers), and light and color. A sidebar describes the L!BRARY initiative to creatively design, professionally staff, and…