Board Policy

Book Policy Manual

Section 2000 Program

Title MATERIALS SELECTION OTHER THAN TEXTBOOKS

Number po2521.01

Status Active

Adopted October 17, 2016

2521.01 - MATERIALS SELECTION OTHER THAN TEXTBOOKS

The Library Media Specialist (LMS) will evaluate library, instructional (other than textbooks), and supplementary materials housed in the Library Media Center. Formats such as computer software, videos, and Internet- accessed subscriptions are evaluated using the same criteria as print instructional materials.

In selecting materials for purchase, the LMS evaluates the existing collection and consults reputable, unbiased, professionally prepared selection aides and specialists from all departments and/or all grade levels. All materials will be considered individually and selected for their strengths based on the following criteria:

• 1. Authoritativeness and reputation of the author and/or publisher.

  2. Timeliness, permanence, and relevance of the item to the curriculum.

  3. Accuracy of content.

  4. Logical organization and presentation of information.

  5. Reading level/vocabulary/use of illustrations to clarify the text.

  6. Readability and popular appeal.

  7. Presentation of various points of view depending on the need to balance the total collection.

  8. Avoidance of inappropriately stereotyped images of any group or individual.

  9. Physical and emotional development of students.

  10. Value commensurate with cost and/or need.

  11. Appropriateness of the format.

  12. Specialists from departments and/or grade levels.

In specific areas, the LMS is to follow the procedures listed below:

• 1. Gift materials that are donated to the district become the property of the school with no stipulations attached. As such, donated materials will be held to the same criteria as purchased materials and used, shelved, or weeded based on the selection policy, at the discretion of the LMS.

  2. Multiple items of much in demand media are purchased as needed.

  3. Worn or missing standard items are replaced periodically.

  4. Based on collection analysis and usage out-of-date or no longer useful materials are withdrawn from the collection. Materials that are discarded will be disposed of at the discretion of the LMS.

  5. Sets of materials and materials acquired by subscription are examined carefully by the LMS and are purchased only to fill a definite need.

Last Modified by Kellie Nelson on January 23, 2017