School library websites: more than pix and clicks?

Amanda Credaro

A recent query from a senior student in Ohio (via the Virtual Reference Desk service, http://www.vrd.org/about.shtml - accessed 24/1/2003) requested a recommendation for a book for an English wide reading requirement. This presented a number of difficulties. What was the student's reading ability and reading interest? Which books were available in their own school library, half a world away? Were there any guidelines from the teacher (eg fiction vs non-fiction, a minimum page requirement, format)?

As the student had provided the name of their school, the first step was to 'drop by' the library's web page, and see if the Library Media Specialist had highlighted any particular genres or themes. It was gratifying to note that there was the requisite information on writing bibliographies, together with information on issues such as plagiarism. Subject guides were also provided to Internet sites. There were links aplenty to information on other servers. The significant omission to this particular information need was content on reader guidance.

Amanda Credaro is a school-based teacher-librarian in New South Wales

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