Exciting Mobile Changes to our Library:)

This spring I finally made the move, via our Follett server, to switch my Follett eBooks to the Follett Shelf feature.  At first I was hesistant, as we had already taught our students to read the eBooks on Destiny Quest.  However, I had not set up actual check out/download privileges for our patrons for a multitude of reasons.  As our digital collection grew, I became more interested in Follett Shelf as an alternative.  And, once Follett created the free mobile apps, Destiny Quest and Follett Digital Reader, I knew it was time!

The first advantage was easy; Follett Shelf doesn't cost a dime for Follett server patrons!  Second, the mobile app allows patrons to check out books on the iPhones, iPads, and Droid tablets.  That constitutes the majority of our patrons!  So, we made the switch and launched an email promotional campaign using Constant Contact.  We  began a library skills set for elementary students on using the app. I set up all student and faculty accounts myself, to make their user log ins/passwords as simple as possible.  My top middle and high school readers, who can never get enough books, I am targeting for individualized training.

During this transition, the library was hosting a readathon fundraiser.  I had my heart set on ordering more eBooks for the digital reader.  And then, bingo!  Follett announced the availablility of a new digital resource, Catalist Digital downloadable audio books!  I have been pricing out downloadable audio for my students for years, but was always intimidated by the costs.  I quickly  purchased the first 100 or so K-12 fiction audio titles, am having them added to Follett Shelf, and we are in the audio book business at our school!  The readathon fundraiser allowed me the flexibility of making the purchase at the end of the school year, when library funds are usually low, to allow for summer check out at home.

All of these exciting changes have increased patron services at our school.  More and more, our 24/7 hosted services are keeping our library vital and integrated in the lives of our students and faculty members.  Exciting times, indeed!

Mom Knows Best!

Did you know that our library's collection management system, Follett Destiny Quest, allows parents to make important decisions on their child's book selection?  Perhaps you have a great young reader but he or she tends to select books a bit too "scary" or too mature in content?  Or, your child repeatedly selects books he can't read, and you are frustrated when he returns from the library.  Just let our librarian know, and a message can be displayed that only the librarian sees when your child goes to check out books. You can always reach the librarian via phone or email.   This way, we can be sure to remain sensitive to the needs and selection criteria for your family.  Because, a mom always knows what is best for her child! 

ALA Position Statement on the Value of Independent Reading in the School Library Program

There are so many things that can influence, good or bad, a child's reading development.  Having access to quality materials is one.  A library needs to stay up-to-date in its selection of quality, new, and award-winning materials at varying reading and interest levels.  At our library, we like to teach our young readers to narrow searches down by "interest level" instead of by "reading level."  It is exciting when a young child can read at or above grade-level!  However, not all fiction written for a particular grade/reading level is appropriate for the young reader.  Thus, we are excited to show them how to narrow their search results using Follett's Destiny Quest. 
Other important parts of the reading equation include the modeling of good reading habits at home, spending time with your child reading together, and the opportunity to spend independent time reading books that interest them, and are not necessarily required of them!  We foster independent reading opportunities in our library by an open-door/class pass policy.  Teachers can send a child in anytime during the school day to read and select materials.  We also offer Kindles in our collection for in-house, independent reading opportunities, loaded with age-appropriate titles.  After school, young students can come in with a parent to read and check out more books!
The following statement by the American Library Association is based on the Goals 2000 that make literacy important nationally.  Your library at Maclay School supports these goals, and seeks through our collection development and library programs to ensure your child gets the best opportunity for them to become life-long readers!

(A portion of the ALA statement)
To become life-long readers, students must have . . .

• access to current, quality, high interest, and extensive collections of books and other print materials in their school libraries, classrooms, and public libraries;
• contact with adults who read regularly and widely and who serve as positive reading role models;
• certified school librarians and classroom teachers who demonstrate their enthusiasm for reading by reading aloud and booktalking;
• time during the school day dedicated to reading for pleasure, information, and exploration;
• opportunities specifically designed to engage young people in reading;
• schools that create an environment where independent reading is valued, promoted, and encouraged; and
• opportunities that involve care givers, parents and other family members in reading.

http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/aasl/aaslissues/positionstatements/valueindependent.cfm