Media Handbook

Purpose:

  • To increase the desire and ability of students to self-select reading materials that suit their individual interests and reading skills.
  • To provide intellectual access to information through learning activities that are integrated into the curriculum.
  • To provide physical access to information through a carefully selected and systematically organized collection.
  • To provide learning experiences that encourage students to become discriminating consumers of information.
  • To provide a program that functions as the information center of the school.
  • To provide resources and activities for learning that represent a diversity of social and cultural perspectives.
  • To support the concept that intellectual freedom and access to information are prerequisite to effective and responsible citizenship in democracy.
  • To provide support for the use of technology in the process of learning and sharing of ideas and knowledge.

Policies:

  • The primary borrowers of the print and non-print collection are the students, teachers and staff of Hunter’s Creek Elementary School.
  • Students may check out any book for a period of two (2) weeks. Kindergarteners and 1st graders may check out one (1) book at a time. Students in grades 2 through 5 may check out up to two (2) books at a time. If a student has any books overdue, they may not check out another book until it is returned.
  • Books may be renewed for one (1) additional two (2) week period. Additional renewals will be allowed at teacher’s request.
  • To promote a wide variety of reading, teachers may borrow books and materials for a period of 30 days. If there is a need for extended use, teachers will check with the Media Specialist for an exception to this rule.
  • Reference materials may be used in the media center. A teacher may check out reference books to be used in the classroom for a period during the day, but must be returned before 3:00 p.m.
  • Circulation will stop two weeks prior to the closing of school; exceptions must be made in advance.
  • There are no fines for overdue books. Students will pay for the replacement cost of books that have been damaged or lost.
  • Teachers will collaboratively plan and schedule lessons with the Media Specialist in advance. Visits for (whole class) book checkout are on a fixed schedule. Teachers accompany their classes during this visit.
  • Teachers may send small groups of up to four (4) students at a time to the Media Center for book check outs or research projects during the hours of 9:30 - 11:30.