Discusses ways to interest students in reading and describes a variety of informal book competitions suitable for elementary and secondary school library media specialists as well as public librarians to use. A more formal structure is described for "Battle of the Books," suitable for older students. (seven references) (LRW)

Explains traditional notions of efficient behavior; applies them to libraries and information centers; discusses how we measure efficiency; describes data envelopment analysis, a mathematical model designed for use with nonprofit organizations to measure efficiency through a weighting scheme; and discusses its use in school media centers.…

Discusses two philosophical views of school library media specialists, one that emphasizes print materials and one that emphasizes technology. Topics include the deterioration of print collections, the increasing amount of information available, effects on students in technology-poor schools, the consulting role according to "Information…

Describes the historical development of libraries in Ethiopia. Examines the National Library of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa University Libraries, the Institute of Ethiopian Studies Library, and the Ethiopian Science and Technology Documentation and Information Center. Discusses the development of special libraries, libraries and documentation centers of…

Provides a suggested model for SCHOOLNET, a voice, video, and data network. Proposes that library media centers should be the site of the SCHOOLNET hub; students and teachers should be able to access the INFOhio library automation system and other information systems; and digital fiber optic hubs and trunk lines should connect school buildings…

Reviews research in school librarianship and the implementation of change, highlighting the characteristics of effective programs that affect student achievement and have the support of school administrators. Research on curriculum implementation and staff development provides guidelines for the institutionalization of school library programs. (92…

Discusses the collaboration of librarians from Xavier University, the Greater Cincinnati Library Consortium, and local public and school libraries to form ROYAL, reviewers of young adult literature. Topics include ROYAL's history, roles of publishers in review groups, the literature review process, group organization, and advantages and…

Reports that some local and regional censorship groups are backed financially by national religious groups. Examines their impact on public and school libraries, recounts their influences on federal legislation, and reviews the status of state legislation. A sidebar discusses the American Library Association's role in aiding librarians. (JMV)

Describes how reference collections can be used by middle school students to evaluate poems as literature and sources of historical fact. Two sidebars list U.S. history reference books appropriate for middle schools and story poems that can be used for an authentification project. (JMV)

Presents guidelines for the proper care and handling of videodisc and CD-ROM hardware and software. Topics discussed include handling the equipment, moving, cleaning techniques, storage considerations, ventilation requirements, and climate control. (LRW)

Reports on the activities of the International Association of School Librarianship (IASL) during 1990-92 in the following areas: publications, including conference proceedings; grants received for special projects, including seminars and lectures; annual conferences; and election of officers. (LRW)

Reports on the activities of state agency personnel involved in helping local school systems develop library media services. State agency characteristics are discussed, the activities of the National Association of State Educational Media Professionals (NASTEMP) are described, and recent publications are reviewed. (four references) (LRW)

Presents ideas for creating classroom libraries, noting how to set up a library (create a space, build and organize the collection, and set rules), where to find books at bargain prices (e.g., garage sales, libraries, book clubs, and grants), basic books to include, and information on authors and illustrators. (SM)

Three articles provide tips for remodeling or building a school media center. Topics addressed include computer workstations; furnishings; packing, moving, and reshelving books; handicapped accessibility; advisory committees; documentation; design elements to increase the comfort of librarians and students; and miscellaneous considerations such as…

Reports results of a survey of vendors of automated systems in Canadian school libraries. Data are presented on number of installations; geographical distributions; international sales; and miscellaneous capabilities, including local area networks, union catalogs, and French language. Vendor addresses and telephone numbers are listed. (three…