Lists the foundational elements needed for an effective library media program and introduces the key components of effective collaboration with classroom teachers, providing proven strategies for its implementation. Suggests teacher-librarians need to take the initiative in collaboration and discusses collaboration as a predictor of student…

Past research has indicated that children become active learners by "active play" which may include board games. In this article, the author describes how the use of games in school libraries may make children more responsive to the school library media center. Games encourage teamwork and creativity, and experts believe that children retain…

This brief article responds to the research finding that effective school libraries have clear roles focused on student achievement. Based on recent research findings, Ross Todd, Carol Kuhlthau and an Ohio team concluded that eight characteristics can be used to place a stronger emphasis on learning. The characteristics include: (1) Resource…

Once again, this column has been inspired by a recent discussion amongst teacher-librarians. The topic, as it often is, focused on getting kids to read for pleasure when there are so many other choices. This article offers some simple suggestions that school librarians can use to get kids to choose to read over other activities.

Examines the progressive education movement and its relationship to the use of the school library as an alternative to the formal, mechanical processes of classroom instruction. Thirty-seven references are cited. (FM)

Discusses the role of the elementary school librarian, as well as the educational function of the school library from the 1950s to the present, and speculates about the future. (CMV)

The lively intervention of the library media specialist is the catalytic agent in shaping teacher's attitudes toward non-textbook resources. (Author)

A position statement that underscores the current demand for access to information, the expectation that information will be used to improve people's lives, and the role that school and public libraries play in meeting this demand and expectation. (Author)

Describes an innovative project in the Tucson, Arizona area in which school librarians, teachers, and administrators developed a shared perspective of how to work together more effectively. Describes the district-wide Library Power program, as well as professional development and institutional change at the district level. Discusses change at one…

Discusses educational reform and the lack of libraries in charter schools. Presents results of a content analysis of books about charter schools and discusses the lack of information about libraries, and suggests the need for teachers and teacher librarians to take leadership roles in emphasizing the role of libraries in charter schools. (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)

Describes the Hunter Education Librarians Project (HELP), a project begun at Western Carolina University (North Carolina) to gather information about the changing roles and professional development needs of school media coordinators. Preparations for the information-gathering meeting, setup and structure of the meeting, findings, and conclusions…

In this article, the author asks the question "Where do students at your school get most of their information for research?" He states that if they are only using the Web, their research is probably on shaky footing. Using only print or using only digital resources often gives student researchers only part of the picture and provides inadequate…

A library media specialist should be involved in understanding the curriculum and the content area standards in the school, school district and the state, which would help the library media specialists to assist in planning, collaboratively teaching and co-evaluating with the classroom teachers. The library media program can become an integral…