An Introduction to Collection Development for School Librarians

Applying an informal and practical approach, Kerby provides beginning librarians with the essential steps to effectively manage a vibrant school library collection. Kerby argues that building a quality collection is no longer enough and offers strategies to ensure that learners actively engage with the materials.

Every aspect of our school library profession builds on a quality school library collection. You can’t be a stellar school librarian without access to quality school library materials.""

Applying an informal and practical approach, Kerby provides beginning librarians with the essential steps to effectively manage a vibrant school library collection. Kerby argues that building a quality collection is no longer enough and offers strategies to ensure that learners actively engage with the materials. Supported by the National School Library Standards and ALA/AASL/CAEP standards for university preparation programs, this resource introduces the key components that influence collection development today, including

• policies, practices, and selection sources to evaluate, weed, and build dynamic and diverse school library collections;
• methods and examples for analyzing collection, curriculum, and community needs;
• strategies for showcasing the school library collection to learners and stakeholders; and
• charts, checklists, worksheets, discussion questions, and tips from practicing school librarians.

By focusing on the basics, readers can begin to reflect on and customize plans for action. A timesaver for the busy school librarian, this collection development digest is the tool you need to ensure success.