Week Ten Reflections

LM_NET

Elizabeth Van Pate media specialist  from Mancelona Public Schools  in Mancelona, MI writes on October 12 about her concerns with weeding books from the library.  She wanted to know if it was possible to sell some of the books at a very low price so that the library could raise some money.  There was much concern with this because of the books being purchased with taxpayer’s money. Most libraries often either donate or just throw away their unwanted, weeded books.  It seems like such a waste to just throw away books. I like the idea of donating books to places like Salvation Army but if the library could have a “garage sale” it would mean the library would have a little extra money to purchase newer books or technology.

Chris Hales, M. Ed. a media specialist from Andersen Junior High School in Chandler, AZ writes on October 20 about the new e reader from Barnes and Noble called “Nook”.  I have become very intrigued by the idea of an e reader, especially since I heard about the Kindle last year.  The Kindle sounded amazing to me but I knew it wouldn’t be as successful as it could until the price came down. Well, Barnes and Noble has beaten them to the punch.  “Nook” is only $260, it comes with a color touch screen and it has the ability to lend books to other people.  You can even lend books to people who don’t have a “Nook”.  This could mean something really interesting for libraries.  I believe generating interest in books for young adults means using technology.  It is an easy way to get their attention.

 

BLOGS

            In a related blog, The Unquiet Librarian writes on October 16^th about students gaining interest in ebooks after a project at school where they researched short stories.  Students began searching online for short stories and found some inexpensive and sometimes free apps for stories.  What a great way to interest students in some amazing literature!

            In a post on October 11^th, The Unquiet Librarian writes about an interesting project where students have the opportunity to combine literature circles and research.  Students are reading books about issues in Africa and then taking their ideas and researching topics.  I think this is a great way to using books and teaching together.  It’s the kind of authentic learning where students actually get something really meaningful from their reading.