1. Why Use Library Services?

1. The increased focus on "Information Literacy" (the ability to select best sources, find them, and extract information for various educational and recreational purposes) requires that all subjects (not just Language Arts) engage students in more research projects in order for them to become more proficient in this area.
2. "Information Literacy" is not just product based, it is process based, focusing on the usage of a variety of resources in different media. The Internet is one medium that is seductively "fast" and "easy" to use. But when it is used exclusively, it bypasses valuable research skills, such as locating information in an index, and evaluating and summarizing information in the students’ own words. The Internet can lead to dishonest work, such as cutting and pasting from web sites, which is plagiarism ("intellectual theft"). The Internet is also commercial and full of distractions. Moreover, since the Internet is not peer-reviewed, some of the information is not credible. Clearly, the Internet is not enough to satisfy good, thorough research in most cases. Other media must be used as well. In addition, when using the Internet, many students lack the vocabulary for applying appropriate search terms for locating good Internet resources, and can not evaluate whether a web site is current, credible, unbiased, and accurate in its information.
3. Consulting with a Librarian about available best resources, procedures, and time frames for projects, provides a greater degree of success for student research projects, and ensures that the research process is also being focused on. It also ensures that the students are being taught consistent research procedures, strengthening their "Information Literacy" skills.

9.             What Services Can a Librarian Provide?

1. Advice regarding books, databases, cds, audio and audio-visual materials suitable for projects or content development.
2. Provision of resources that are helpful for a particular project or unit
3. Creation of html pages with customized web sites for projects.
4. Timely and valuable info through the Library Web Page

1.       Calendar for library activities (ability to search events)

2.       Electronic Book Review submissions

3.       Links to Databases, other Libraries (including IMC)

4.       Examples and "Pink Sheet" forms for citing sources

1. Customized categories for content units in OPAC (the card catalogue), which can provide enrichment, or research resources (e.g. Multi-Cultural Fiction, Shakespeare and the Renaissance, World War II, and Immigration resources).
2. Training of students and staff in "Information Literacy."
3. Help for students with generating search terms for locating resources (including Internet sites) and evaluating the quality of resources found. Help with taking notes and citing sources, as well as evaluating types of information needed.
4. Professional Development Assistance

1.       Location of professional resources (e.g. databases of journals, ERIC)

2.       Help with working on professional projects (software suggestions and training, ideas for creating or enhancing projects, locating resources for projects).

"Research shows that the highest achieving students attend schools with good library media centers."

-- American Library Association