Abstract In this article, the writer notes that schoollibraries and mediacenters within the library are becoming more important to the overall operations and provision of services for patrons. The writer points out that in an effort to modernize programs at schoollibraries, a great deal of technological investment and automation is necessary. The writer maintains that a fully integrated library will serve to provide optimal space and atmosphere for patrons, in addition to modern equipment and facilities to promote functionality and the retrieval of information. The writer argues that the primary goal for schoollibraries should be to make the transition from book archive to a one-stop learning center for all student needs.
Outline:
The Function of the Library Services Provided by the Library The Role of the LibraryMedia Specialist
From the Paper "The difficult task for many school libraries is outlining what services will support the ultimate function for the community and the student body. It is important to note that whichever plan of action is used in facilitating learning, the primary goal is to have readily accessible information for patrons. Historically, school libraries have become obsolete in its provisions of fresh resources. Although automated services such as the Dewey Decimal System create a user friendly and automated system for library books, it is important to note that automation is key for media services, and that the integration with the book system and computer databases is a paramount priority.
"According to the Literacy Partners, providing user friendly access for students and staff that is appropriate for student development and features diversity in perspective, format and interest. In other words, accountability for flexible learning is becoming more prevalent for library and media services institutions and staff."
Abstract This paper examines how a middle schoollibrary can support, motivate and initiate service learning opportunities with the students and staff. The paper outlines the service learning activities and the need to create social learning activities.
Abstract The paper reviews the literature that highlights the importance of a staffed library for the school and the education of students. The paper outlines the costs of a library and how it should be run. The paper concludes that the library is the central and dynamic core of education when the library is fully and effectively equipped for that role.
Outline:
Introduction
Review of Literature
Costs for Proposed Library Best Practice
Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper "The work of Aase Bredsdorff (1979) entitled: "Practical Aspects of School Library Legislation" states that school legislation is plenty existent in the majority of countries however, while library legislation may be found, school library legislation, is little in existence resulting in the school libraries stated to be "the weakest in many library systems." It is additionally noted that "a strong case to be made for a legal requirement" regarding library establishment in "all recognized schools and vocational colleges" may be made.(Bredsdorff, 1979) The model that one may look to for an example of just such a library system is found in the countries of Denmark, Norway, and other aforementioned Nordic countries. Legislation such as these holds the school library to be a 'key' tool for teaching including literature of young children and young people."
Abstract This paper discusses the option of developing homework centers in public libraries. The paper examines the academic needs and ramifications from the child's perspective. The social reasons for creating more homework centers in libraries are presented, as well as the emerging obstacles for regular "after-school programs," which create an even greater need for more homework centers in libraries. The paper assesses what the literature reveals about homework centers in libraries. The issue of how volunteers and paid staff are recruited for homework centers in libraries is explored. The paper provides a testimony from an after-schoollibrary program advocate, as well as examples of successful programs.
From the Paper "There are numerous good reasons (Mediavilla, 1) as to why homework centers in public libraries are very important, and why educational and social activists pursue the development of such centers. Indeed, in the first place, children left alone after school, according to research by the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Justice, do not succeed academically as well as those who participate in after-school programs; this is not rocket science, this is pure, simple common sense fact. Number two, according to Cindy Mediavilla's book, Creating the Full-Service Homework Center in Your Library, children who have a meaningful, safe, learning environment to go to after school are more likely "to develop stronger social skills" (p. 2) and also more likely to learn how "to acceptably handle conflicts.""
Abstract The paper analyzes the relevance of providing middle school students with current, contemporary and up to date media in the middle schoollibrary. The paper discusses how, historically, many schools, under funded and on tight budgets, have allocated little attention to providing contemporary library collections to students. The paper further discusses how such dismissal of contemporary materials may contribute to illiteracy and negative perceptions of reading on the part of these students. The paper provides an exploratory analysis of the impact providing contemporary and up to date media has on middle school students using the schoollibrary.
Outline:
Abstract
Background/Introduction
Methodology
Data Results
Summary
From the Paper "For decades researchers have acknowledged the necessity of providing current materials to student libraries regardless of the age of students utilizing library services (American Association of School Librarians, 1960). Most libraries today are managed under general systems theory which suggests that collection development should involve identifying current and up to date texts and other sources of media to provide for student interests and educational purposes (Lukenbill, 2002; Stueart & Moran, 1998). Collection development in the student library has evolved around multiple concepts. Administrators must work to identify the role collection development will play in student outcomes and the roles that librarians, educators and teachers together will play in developing collections that are current and viable (Lukenbill, 2002)."
Abstract This paper examines the need for after school programs for children whose parents are not available after school closes. The paper argues that homework centers in public libraries offer an effective solution to this problem and further points out that the cuts to funding for schoollibraries and after school programs makes the need for these homework centers even more urgent.
From the Paper "In recent years, a confluence of social, economic and political factors has led to the emergence of increasing numbers of unattended or latchkey children who are not provided with the necessary educational assistance during the after-school hours. These factors include the disintegration of traditional households characterized by single parents or two working parents, the rise in the number of immigrant households where English is the second language, as well as the loss of funding for school libraries and after-school programs. In the absence of sufficient after-school educational support..."
Abstract This paper presents a detailed discussion about the need for librarymedia specialists to promote librarymedia programs. The writer argues that specialists need to be proactive in selling the medialibrary programs and services. The argument includes ideas on changing the traditional view of libraries as well librarymedia specialists.
From the Paper "The world of the library has changed in ways that we never imagined were possible. Today with the click of a mouse we can visit nations across the ocean, we can check the price of stock and there is no topic on earth that cannot be researched if we know how to use the Internet. Gone are the days that libraries handed out cards and one was limited to two books a week. Gone are the days in which one went to the library and could not find what they needed because the topic was obscure."
Tags: books, inormation, internet, assistance, media, program, service
Abstract This study focuses on the importance of having a well-developed, bilingual fiction collection in schoollibraries to support, enhance, and motivate the English as a Second Language (ESOL) student population. The writer believes that by having a bilingual selection of fiction material available in schoollibraries from the elementary level on will encourage the ESOL student population to read and learn English more swiftly without causing them to lose their motivation and general interest in reading. The writer asserts that, currently, the educational system supporting ESOL students lacks sensitivity of approach and consideration for what students actually desire to read.
From the Paper "Many students gain experience of the English language from experiences acquired outside of the classroom. Therefore it is important to provide students with opportunities to select materials to read for pleasure and learning outside of the classroom. These materials should be diverse in nature and representative of the unique population ESOL students represent. It is crucial while still young that student's gain a liking for and desire for reading. Acquiring reading comprehension skills is crucial to successful attainment of fluency in any language. Fiction materials provided to students within the library in both their native language and English will allow students to learn English in a non-pressure, exciting manner that corresponds directly to their likes and interests. Providing such materials also sends a message to students that their individual choices and desires are respected. This in turn will lead to higher sense of self esteem and interest, and further motivate students to continue reading and practicing their English speaking abilities inside of and outside of the classroom."
Tags: language, motivation, education, school, literate, book
Abstract This paper focuses on the legalities surrounding the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) and the Technology, Education and Copyright Harmonization Act (TEACH) which were both passed to protect the owners of software copyrights. This paper discusses the issue of software copyright as it pertains mainly to the field of education. The writer contends and explains the manner in which both laws clarify several complicated issues for software users while also offering international protection to owners of copyrighted material. This paper examines the basic premise of TEACH which contains recommendations made by the U.S. Copyright Office that addresses the use of informational material and services obtained via the internet. This paper discusses the responsibilities of online educational organizations who make use of informational software. This paper also delves into the additional concerns and responsibilities facing schoollibraries regarding the software used on library computers.
From the Paper "These requirements are in addition to laws and regulations previously on place. The laws are intended to give software publishers the same protections text publishers have. Just as it is illegal to photocopy textbooks to avoid buying published copies, schools cannot copy software for use on multiple computers unless they have purchased a multiple-use license. Then, they must restrict the number of copies to the number authorized in their purchase. They may not install personal copies of software they purchased for home use on a school computer; or make copies of school-owned software for either home use or to share with parents and students. In addition, the laws address the use of shareware. Sometimes people think of shareware as "free," but it is not, and schools may not use shareware beyond the date at which the shareware copyright owner demands payment. In addition, although freeware is free in that the school does not have to pay for it, the law states that people may not sell freeware."
Abstract This paper discusses library funding for Web sites and technology in university libraries in particular. The high cost of building in-house web portals and the effect of the declining tax-base for libraries is also discussed.
Tags:library science, Web sites, technology, budgets
Abstract This paper explores the theoretical case of a special library, which exists to serve the research and information needs of a select group of scientific research based corporations. The author divides the paper into five sections: Background, problem, analysis, alternatives and recommendation. The paper is written from the perspective of a library manager who must convince the superiors at his or her institution that the library has extreme merit and is an overall benefit to the organization.
From the Paper "Our special library exists to serve the research and information needs of a select group of scientific research based corporations. Our materials include contracts, correspondence, accounts, public relations materials, and advertisements, but primarily consist of business and scientific publications. One corporation, T. Corp, provides our sole source of funding and designates other parties who may also have access to the library's resources. Recent acquisitions and management changes inside T. Corp have led to a decline in use of the library, as well as lack of communication concerning the research and information needs of the employees and other users."
Abstract This paper reviews Green's discussion on how the personalization of the library experience can be accomplished between librarian and reader. The paper continues by saying that Green contended that each individual from every walk of life was capable of using the library system. As individuals sought knowledge through literature it was, according to Green, the librarian's responsibility to ensure that the information that was needed was easily retrieved. The paper further reports that this process was accomplished in an atmosphere of courteous service to every library patron.
Abstract The public library has together with the public museum and art gallery performed a critical role in modern democracy as a palace of enlightenment that theoretically provides all citizens with the information necessary to develop informed opinions and play the politically necessary role as an educated voter on the important issues of the day. In this context, this paper attempts to shed some light on the social and economic preconditions that determine the viability of any electronic library. The paper first defines the social function of a library and then extrapolates whether that form is capable of being replicated in electronic form.
Abstract This paper discusses how school-based health centers (SBHC) provide an optimal opportunity to address the psychological and other issues facing adolescents. It shows how issues adolescent sexuality, STDs, pregnancies and high risk behavior can be challenged with a combination of healthcare and education. It addresses the relationship between access to healthcare at SBHCs and adolescent sexuality, pregnancy, educational aspirations and condom usage.
Outline
Abstract
Introduction
Problem
Literature Review
Psychosocial Development
Birth Control
Prevalence of and Problems Associated With Unprotected Sexual Activity by Teenagers
Attitudes of Teenagers Toward Condom Use
Nursing Initiatives
School Based Health Centers Evaluation
Solution
From the Paper "The delivery of birth control information to teenagers and making contraceptive devices or preparations accessible to teenagers are two related and equally controversial issues in the United States in the 1990s. The increasing prevalence of both teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among teenagers, however, exerts an impact on the practice of nursing regardless of how controversial the issues may be. This research reviews the problems associated with unprotected sexual activity among teenagers as well as the attitudes of teenagers toward the use of condoms, as a means of illustrating the impact of these phenomena on the practice of nursing."
This paper discusses that skyrocketing statistics about violence in inner city schools, which complicates the future of education for children living in these areas and seeks solutions.
Abstract This paper explains that the cause of violence in inner city schools might be related to a lack of resources to combat violence and lack of interest in productive activities on the part of the students. The author points out that the decision to include mandatory police officers on patrol in the inner city school building may be necessary to reduce the total level of harm to the society in that setting, but students may feel that their privacy is being invaded, may feel depressed to be in a school where there are mandatory police officers and may not support the program on a student-centered level. The paper relates that inner city schools are best served by emphasizing positive, well-directed, high-quality extracurricular choices to improve students' self-concepts, which will lead to improved academic achievement and a decrease in too much sex and violence in the school environment.
Table of Contents
Explanations for Violence
Mandatory Police Officers
Drugs
Teenage Pregnancy
Lack of Interest in Academics
What Can Be Done
Future Programs/Facilities
From the Paper "If a student chooses to spend their time away from school in an unproductive manner that is dictated by violence, this will affect they way they behave when inside of the institution in a negative way. This is often a problem in inner city and other schools where a culture of oppression may heighten violence. Attention need not be over-
emphasized on recent events concentrating on violence in school, as statistics and mass media attention tend to speak for themselves in the emotions and opinions raised by negative incidents in inner city schools, but in schools like Columbine as well. The lack of positive patterns of rule enforcement in schools can, in extreme cases, lead students to
form horrifyingly negative structural patterns of behavior that are then taken back into the institution in violent ways."
