Presents questions for evaluating a media center's reference section, focused on types of resources; reference-material evaluation criteria and items that belong in or are misplaced in the reference section; relocating materials and ensuring use of newly classified materials; and how to collect data on usage of resources. (AEF)

Suggests that to reach those responsible for funding, librarians need to be more assertive in making the school library's role and services understood. Discusses maintaining visibility, using every opportunity to tout new materials and services, having credibility and knowing the collection, making libraries comfortable and accessible, and…

Discusses how to schedule library use in conjunction with block scheduling. Highlights include the need for flexible scheduling, collaborating with teachers for long-range planning for library use, and a model schedule for library use coordinated with class activities. (LRW)

Discusses items that need to be considered when remodeling a school media center. Highlights include space and location for various functions, including projections of print versus electronic media; electrical and data wiring needs; lighting; security and supervision; and reuse of existing furniture and equipment. (LRW)

Addresses areas which school library collections improved during the Library Power grant years, factors contributing to collection development improvements, how the collection formed the basis for collaborations between the librarian and teachers, and contributions of the collection to teaching and learning. (AEF)

Discusses the E-Rate, a program from the Telecommunications Act of 1996 that offers a discounted rate to schools and libraries wanting to connect to the Internet. Topics include changes in school district planning practices; the effects of politics, administrative priorities, and community concerns; and technology planning and integration. (LRW)

Suggests resources for school librarians who need materials for visually impaired or blind students. Highlights include the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped; Louis Database of Accessible Materials for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired; Braille books; large print books, audio books; assistive technology; and…

Discusses booktalks as a method of promoting reading among middle school students and suggests titles in the areas of fantasies, mysteries, contemporary fiction, outdoor/adventure fiction, historical fiction, and humorous fiction. A Web site is given that includes complete bibliographic information and additional titles. (LRW)

Presents a history of MARC records; provides an overview of MARC records structure; discusses format integration; and explains benefits of understanding MARC records to school library media specialists, including assessing the quality of bibliographic records, creating original MARC records, and maintaining online catalogs. (LRW)

Describes how libraries can use statistics to make useful comparisons with similar types of libraries. Discusses public libraries, academic libraries, and school library media centers; considers print and electronic sources; and lists acronyms and applicable Web sites where statistics can be found. (LRW)

Discussion of how media specialists can help students deal with change and learn to collaborate focuses on Standard Nine from "Information Literacy Standards for Student Learning" from "Information Power". Highlights include modeling; change management; making change personal; and culture and community. (LRW)

Examines innovative ways for school libraries to collect organize, and make effective use of student work. Highlights include recognizing original work; student writing; student posters of favorite books or characters; databases for organizing information; videotaping of students' activities and presentations; electronic products; events;…

Presents guidelines to help school library media specialists create and maintain an attractive, accurate, and current collection of science resources. Discusses weeding; calling for help; and collection rebuilding. Describes several valuable resources for accurate and up-to-date science information. (AEF)

Examines quality in school library media programs in relation to the quality of education offered in the schools. School reform efforts that have evolved to a focus on learning are discussed; roles of the school library media specialist are described; and implications of centering the library on learning are considered. (LRW)

Notes that high school librarians should know what transpires at Model United Nations Assemblies and which books will help prepare students and educators for these experiences. Describes the conferences, student responsibilities, and awards. Provides a list of relevant university depository sources for United Nations records and reports. (AEF)