Outlines the factors that should be considered when planning to incorporate microcomputers into the library setting. These include the function of the microcomputer (recreation, instruction, and information retrieval); criteria for software selection (technical and instructional criteria); and the formation of policies and procedures for…

Summarizes work by three researchers in the area of young people and libraries. The first examined library habits of pregnant teenagers; the second explored reading interests of children and adolescents and factors involved in their selection of reading materials; and the third advocated making research relevant to those involved in collecting…

Discussion of criteria for use in evaluating telecommunications hardware for a school library's online searching program focuses on modem selection. The differences between internal and external modems are described, and a prioritized checklist of recommended features for external modems is presented. (CLB)

Examines trends in the opportunity for adolescents to participate in readers' choice award programs. In addition to the extent of such programs, the discussion covers the characteristics of winning books, the benefits to adolescent readers, and the validity of using awards lists for library collection development. (six references) (CLB)

Provides elementary and middle school library media specialists with criteria for evaluating poetry collections, including balancing contemporary and traditional poetry and responding to children's preferences; discusses ways to promote poetry with both students and teachers; and includes a selected bibliography of 60 recommended poetry books.…

Summarizes the results of an informal survey of fourth grade students that examined the criteria by which they select books for relaxed reading and report information, and how they use library catalog information. A need for flexibility in cataloging systems to meet children's information retrieval needs is indicated. (10 references) (CLB)

In addition to providing an annotated bibliography and a set of criteria for selecting outstanding translated children's books, this article addresses the collaborative process by the International Relations Committee (IRC) of the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) of producing such a bibliography. Sources include…

Presents 39 guidelines in the form of questions and answers to assist librarians in developing young adult programs. Topics covered include types of programs, ways to get adolescents involved, practical considerations, promotional activities, and the evaluation of the success of a program. (seven references) (CLB)

Provides guidelines for young adult librarians developing nonprint media collections. The discussion covers the formation of collection development policies, the need to involve the community in policies, and material selection criteria. Bibliographies of guides and reviewing sources are included. (CLB)

Discusses the history and literary value of young adult novels written mainly for adolescents. Topics covered include measures of quality; literary criticism and reviews; specific characteristics of young adult novels related to the elements of plot, characterization, dialogue, setting, point of view, and style; and critical standards. (nine…

Reports on a content analysis study of 25 novels about youth facing death and dying to determine whether death and grieving are realistically portrayed in young adult literature. Describes the evaluative instruments developed and discusses findings, concluding that young people can be informed and comforted by these realistic novels. (38…

Describes six trends and five evaluative criteria of children's nonfiction books and suggests four additional criteria for activity books. Topics discussed include humor, unusual formats, graphics and illustrations, accuracy and authenticity, content and perspective, and organization. Specific titles appropriate for kindergarten through sixth…

Discusses the need for quality science books for children and the role that awards could play in promoting superior books. The American Institute of Physics Award, the American Nature Study Society's Eva L. Gordon Award, and the New York Academy of Sciences Award Program are described. Award-winning publishers and authors are listed. (31…

Describes a study that examined whether children respond differently when they speak and write about pictures as a result of participating in a visual literacy program. Fifth graders participating in such a program were asked to examine two books and choose one as a Caldecott winner, giving reasons for their choices. (nine references) (CLB)

Identifies five criteria for the selection of picture books, and discusses their potential benefits for children's reading attitudes and skills. The benefits discussed include offering a store of experiences, learning the possibilities of language, gaining an understanding of cultural heritages, developing imagination, and learning about…