LM_NET: Library Media Networking
Dear Alice,
In order to keep track of student use, you might place an 'old' computer
like an apple lle by the door and ask students to sign in. Using a data
base form, you can ask student to enter his/her name, and "X" the columns
that indicate why they came to the library i.e., research, checking out,
teacher request, etc.. I would like to give credit to the person who
suggested this, but I don't know; this idea is not my own.
Sometimes, it seems as if we are asked to do the impossible. And so, you
should figure out how to do the impossible without any assistance from
you. Create independent users (which is the greatest service you can do
for all your patrons) and free yourself for other activities you must
attend to.
My library is the size of one classroom. And in this room we house 8500
titles, an internet station, an auomated check-out station, a three
station computer area for CD ROM's, a small reading area, magazine area
and 6 tables. I have had two classrooms and check-out going at the same
time. Circulation statistics indicate 1.5 books per student on a weekly
basis is normal routine for us. I have one volunteer who arrives on
Monday to do some RECON work, no paid clerical help and 1 student who
checks out books from 9:00-9:30 a.m. daily.
It is my hope that my building and district will see the need for more
space and at least part-time clerical help.
I would like the library accessible at all times but when I am conducting
classes or particularly sharing a story I need complete silence and,
therefore, only 1 class is in there at one time.
When I was a classroom teacher I had complete autonomy over my program;
as a librarian, I do not. I depend upon teachers to support my program;
this is difficult at times. A librarian can only attempt to provide a
vital program and there is such a lack of awareness about what libraries
could and should provide.
I hope this provides some suggestions and some thought as you pursue your
own program.
Louise Edwards
Elementary Librarian
Mount Vernon, WA
ledwards@eagle.esd189.wednet.edu
LM_NET
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