In order to focus on important contributions of elementary school instructional media centers (IMC's) to the educational program, a study was conducted to determine the presence of conditions of positive self-concept--cooperation, independence, success, positive atmosphere, challenge, feeling of value or acceptance--in such centers. A descriptive, case study research design using observation, interviews, and a diary of IMC activities was used in three Wisconsin elementary schools having IMC programs with a full-time professional media specialist and an aide. Schools represented a rural, an urban, and a suburban setting. Observable indicators for the six conditions examined were determined by a panel of library and media experts. All six conditions were present in the sample schools, indicating that the IMC can influence development of a positive self-concept in individual children. Some expected activities, such as production, did not occur. The media specialists interviewed generally believed in students' individual worth and the need for media programs to support that worth. Nine references are listed and the observation checklists used are appended. (Author/LMM)