Selection Tools

The school librarian must put a great deal of thought and research into developing the collection to meet the needs of the students, staff and community. To do this, most counties require at least two positive reviews from a reputable source.

Here you will find a list of professional journals, books and databases that contain critical reviews to help you with your selection process.

Journals and Books

American Library Association Awards

Awards and Lists

BooksinPrint.com

Online source that compiles all awards and other publications' recommendations for each book. Subscription Required.

Booklinks

Both online and print. Subscription required. The online version is called Web Connections

Booklist

Both online and print. Reviews Books and Videos. Subscription Required.

Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Subscription Required.

Curriculum Connections

Both online and print.

Horn Book Guide

Both online and print. Subscription Required.

Horn Book Magazine

Subscription Required.

H. W. Wilson

Both online and print. Subscription for online required.

•  Senior High Core Collection
•  Middle and Junior High School Core Collection
•  Children's Core Collection

Library Media Connection

Subscription required.

Multicultural Review

Both online and print.

School Library Journal 

Reviews Books and Videos. Subscription Required.

School Library Monthly

Subscription required.

Series Made Simple

Both online and print.

VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates)

Subscription Required.

Young Adult Library Services Association 

Awards and Lists

• Alex Awards - ten books written for adults that appeal to young adults
• William C. Morris Award  - a book written by an unpublished author that appeals to young adults
• Odyssey Award - the best audiobook for children/young adults
• YALSA Award for Excellent in Nonfiction for Young Adults - the best nonfiction book for yound adults
• Amazing Audiobooks for Young Adults
• Best Fiction for Young Adults - the current year's books with the potential for appeal to teens
• Great Graphic Novels for Teens - the year's graphic novels that appeal to young adults
• Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers - a list of suggested books that will appeal to young adults who do not like to read
• Teens' Top Ten - a list of ten books nominated by teens each year; the list is announced during Teen Read Week

Database Selection Tools

Howard County:  These tools were hand picked by the county - Librarians have little say in what databases are chosen, however, a great compilation is provided.

http://adamyeargin.hcpss.wikispaces.net/

State Level: MDK-12

http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/media/mdk12/databases.html