School Library Media Websites

A school library’s website is a very important way to encourage people to come to the library and take advantage of its resources. It is also a way to show patrons that the library is in step with the growth of technology. People need to know that the library is still relevant and is growing to meet the changing needs of patrons. The following is a list of components that would enhance an elementary school library website.

1. Calendar of Events

It is important to let patrons know what and when things are going on in the library. Including a calendar will allow your patrons to find out more information about special events and programs.

2. Links to kid friendly fun sites

There are an astounding number of sites that offer games and other fun stuff, but not all are appropriate for children. This page would provide students with links to fun sites that are known to be kid friendly. I would also provide a way for students to submit recommendations for additions to this page.

3. Book Lists

People are more likely to read a book that is recommended to them by someone else. Adding a book list section will give curious readers a chance to learn about good books they might not have known about before. These lists could be reading lists submitted by teachers or lists of award winners from groups such as the American Library Association. However, books that adults think are good for children and books that children like are sometimes quite different. I would also include on this page book recommendations from other students and instructions for how a student can recommend a book.

4. Recommended Reference Sites

When searching for information, there are a seeming infinite number of sites to choose from. Selecting the best and most accurate sites can be difficult for elementary students. Creating a page for links and annotation for recommended reference sites can give students a good start in researching. Also, students will see examples of quality reference sites, making it easier for them to recognize good reference sites in the future.

5. Meet the Staff

It is important for patrons to feel that they know the library staff and can approach them. I would also include links to staff e-mail addresses so that patrons can easily contact them at any time.

6. Virtual Tour of Library

On this page, you should include photographs and descriptions of the library sections. This will give you a chance to show off all the physical areas and resources the library has to offer. Patrons may see something interesting that they have not noticed before and decide to try it out.

7. Links to author sites

Often after reading a book, readers wonder about the writer. How did they get the idea for this book? What other books has this author written? Many authors have their own websites to allow readers to get to know more about them and their works. Creating a links page for these sites will make it easy for children to find information about their favorite authors.

8. Library Policies and Procedures

It is important for patrons to know what to expect when they come to the library. This page would provide general information about how the library works including rules, policies, procedures, and schedules.

9. Dewey Decimal List

Finding nonfiction books can be challenging for elementary students. This page would provide a list of Dewey decimal subjects and call numbers to help them find books on their topic of choice.

10. Subscription Resources

Many libraries subscribe to resources such as databases and online encyclopedias. This page would make it very convenient for patrons to access these resources from any computer with the appropriate log in information.

School Library Media Websites

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