selection principles
The selection process is a complicated one which requires participation by the library media specialist, teachers, and students. As the School Library Media Specialist, I am charged with deciding what will or will not be added to our collection. First consideration is given to the needs of our school community based on knowledge of curriculum, teacher philosophies, and the existing collection.
Materials are considered for selection if they:
Selection is an ongoing process which also includes the removal of titles deemed irreparable or no longer useful (known as "weeding") as well as the replacement of lost or worn titles which still meet collection or curriculum needs. When funds are available, I make purchases based on a carefully laid out procedure. 1. Collection and curriculum needs are evaluated first. 2. Reputable, professionally-prepared selection aids & vendors are consulted. Choices include, but are not limited to: State Department of Education bibliographies Core Media Collection guides Titlewave: http://www.titlewave.com/ Bound-to-Stay Bound: http://www.btsb.com/ Reviews in professional journals such as: School Library Journal Booklist Bookmarks American Libraries The Journal Magazine and Web site: thejournal.com Kirkus Reviews Curriculum and textbook guides Accelerated Reader lists State, County, and Local Technology Plans Recommendations from within the school community Personal evaluation based on our selection principles 3. Multiple items of outstanding and much-in-demand materials are purchased as needed (when funds allow). 4. Selections based on state funds require a purchase order from the office of the superintendent and those based on local funds require a purchase order from the principal's office. 5. Attempts are made to support local vendors as much as possible. Donated books are welcome and appreciated. They are subjected to the selection criteria listed above and any donations not added to the collection will be set aside for our school's donation to the Spring book drive benefiting the local literacy non-profit Better Basics. |