Technology in School Libraries

The youth of today have more access to and knowledge of technology than early generations. Reasons for this enhanced knowledge is due to more technology being available today compared to the past. Due to youth’s knowledge of technology, it is important for sources of technology to be available in school library media centers.

School library media centers are usually the first substantial library experience a student receives. In order for this library experience to be a positive one, the school library needs to be able to provide the student with the required information and formats. Different technological sources available to school library media centers are ebooks, audiobooks, and online databases. A good resource for school libraries is world book. World book allows students to gain access to encyclopedias, reference articles, and audio visual materials. To learn more about world book and the services offered visit their site.

*Photo courtesy of Painters Bible.

Ebooks

The increase in the amount of materials being digitized and new technology has led to the popularity of electronic books, or ebooks. Ebooks are a great new source for libraries and for people who love to read. Devices that allow users to read ebooks, such as the Kindle or the Nook, allow the user to transport a number of books around easily and read those books at their convenience.

Libraries and publishers have started to make more books available electronically. An example of this availability is the recent releasing of the popular Harry Potter series in ebook format. Libraries can gain access to many of these electronic sources through systems like OverDrive. According to the OverDrive site, the system gives access to more than 650,000 digital resources from many different publishers.

*Photo courtesy of Art Fire