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  • Essay / Public School Libraries - 2187

    Although not all agree, the trend to remove print media from libraries can be seen as a refocusing of public school library resources on 21st century learning. The debate over e-books in particular has been very controversial. Traditionally, the library is a quiet place to read and research, primarily from printed materials. Most libraries have even built in a bank or two of computers so patrons can access the Internet or search databases, but the perception and reality of most libraries is that they are filled with shelves and shelves of printed materials. Library media centers across America are being tasked with making an important decision: How much of their print collection should be eliminated and replaced with e-book technology? Books are suddenly more accessible; Hundreds of options can be stored on slim devices that can fit in a backpack or even a back pocket. New technology certainly motivates and fascinates the school-age population, who cannot remember a time when the Internet was not available. This break with the traditional school library is not without concern. Although people can save a lot of money, purchasing and maintaining the technology is very expensive. Many people don't like reading on a screen and children can easily become distracted. New systems and strategies need to be put in place to train school librarians and teachers on how to best use the new 21st century library media center. While these are legitimate concerns, technology has changed society and it is the obligation of the American public school library to reflect these changes. E-book technology is not easy to define. It was described by Gall in his article "Dispelling Five Myths" as the work of ...... in the middle of the article, but all were convinced that the use of ELR had definitely improved the experiences of student learning. » (626).In conclusion, electronic technology constitutes a permanent change in the modern school library, as well as in the creative and inventive possibilities of its applications. E-books and access to them are necessary learning tools that must be provided in our schools for our students to use in this globalized technological world. Our information-centric schools and libraries must be able to adapt to these changes and continue to keep pace with these innovations. We must reject the tendency to resist change and open our minds to advances and the positive results they will bring. “In three years, no one will think this is controversial. They will be surprised to learn that this is the case. James Tracy, principal of Cushing Academy (Weinstock 5).