Selection Policy
The objective of the LMS school media program selection process is to ensure that the collection encompasses a wide range of materials, including print, non-print, and electronic resources that will support the curriculum and also meet the needs and interests of the entire school community (ALA, 1999).
Selection Process Procedures
- The school library media specialist (SLMS) will conduct an analysis of the library collection to determine materials that need to be removed or replaced due to low circulation, outdated information, and/or the poor condition of the resource.
- The SLMS will map the collection to ensure that an adequate number of resource materials fulfill curriculum needs and meet the annual goals of the media center.
- The SLMS may use, but is not limited to, the following professional aids to select materials: reviews from professional journals, TITLEWAVE, textbook guides, resource guides, and award book lists.
- The SLMS will request and take into consideration recommendations from teachers, principals, school staff, students, parents, and community members.
- The SLMS may review books and materials to ensure that they meet the guidelines for material selection, established by the SLMS and the Media Committee.
- The SLMS will make a master list of titles and book summaries.
- The Media Committee will review the list of materials selected by the SLMS. They will provide feedback on the selections.
- If any book is deemed questionable, the Media Committee will have the opportunity to read the book and discuss any concerns. If the majority of the committee rejects a proposed resource, it will be removed from the purchase list.
- After approval is obtained from the Media Committee the SLMS will create a purchase order for the materials.
Weeding Guidelines
In order to maintain the quality of the collection it is essential to apply weeding principles. Weeding will ensure that the collection contains accurate, current, and relevant materials. The collection of materials which is appealing in content as well as appearance will result in greater utilization of resources.
Materials eligible for removal:
- Worn and damaged titles
- Damaged/missing pages, cover, binding
- Scratched/torn audiovisual materials
- Encyclopedias should be considered for weeding at least every five years
- All unnecessary duplicates not circulating
- Outdated and inaccurate materials
- Poorly written materials or improved editions
- Materials no longer appropriate for reading/interest level of current student body
- Materials no longer in demand or which do not support the curriculum
- Materials that are condescending, stereotyping, patronizing or biased
- Materials which have not circulated in three to five years
Challenges
Any resident or employee of the school district may formally challenge learning resources used in the district’s educational program on the basis of appropriateness. This procedure is for the purpose of considering the opinions of those persons in the school community who are not directly involved in the selection process.
Faculty and staff should notify the media specialist or the principal if they know of a complaint or direct the complainant to the Media Center.