Web Pages

So far in this class we have not really discussed the importance of a media center web page. A media web page, especially one that is the home page for all library computers, and preferably for the entire school is a great learning resource for students and teachers. A media center web page can remind students that there are other resources out there other than Google. The authors of SLJ's technology survey agree with me, "Research tells us that most teenagers doing their homework turn to the Internet. And their favorite information source? Google. That means that it's more important than ever for library media centers to have their own Web sites to provide around-the-clock-access to the OPAC, as well as authoritative online resources" (Brewer & Milam, 2006, p. 47). According to the survey (Brewer & Milam, 2006, pp 47, 49), 65% of us have web pages, and these link to the OPAC, electronic databases, pathfinders or webliographies, webquests, distance learning resources, and web resources. Media web pages are becoming leadership and teaching tools all by themselves!

For those who aren't sure what a library media web page should include, Donna Baumbach has a great article in the spring issue of FAME's online magazine. She insists (Baumbach, 2006) that school websites "affirm the leadership abilities and technology expertise of the library media specialist, while reminding the school community that library media specialists are contributors to as well as wise consumers of digital information". Media specialists need to market themselves, and a web page is the best tool for doing so. Plus, it allows you to reach out to students at any hour. If you are not sure of what is needed for a media website, this article will give you lots of ideas.

Of course, I must admit that my school web page is very poor. I was planning on updating this summer, but that was before I switched schools. My new school library's web page (once I update and get my name on it) has more information, but I still need to greatly revise it. So, that is going to be one of my top priorities come August. Why do I have the feeling that I'm going to be spending a lot of time with my Dreamweaver text?


References:

Baumbach, D. (Spring 2006). Making the Grade: Making the Most of Your School Library's Website. Florida Media Quarterly. Retrieved July 22, 2006 from http://www.floridamedia.org/documents/FMQSpring2006.pdf

Brewer, S. & Milam, P. (June 2006). SLJ's Technology Survey 2006. School Library Journal, 52 (6), 46-50.