School Library Media Collection Development

Collection Development

In St. Mary's County Public Schools, developing the library media center collection is primarily the responsibility of the school library media specialist, who reviews, evaluates and selects a variety of materials based upon the curriculum and the objectives of the school. Adhering to SMCPS Board of Education Policy IJ: Instructional Resources and Materials and Regulation I J-R, the school library media specialists utilize book reviews and scholarly journals to make informed purchasing decisions. 

The review of the library collection identifies the strengths and weaknesses of the school library collection. The collection shall represent educational, informational, and recreational materials in a variety of formats. Quality resources should reflect a collection that balances all aspects of the SMCPS educational programs as aligned with the Maryland College and Career Ready Standards, supporting the diverse interests and needs of the school community. School library media specialists welcome recommendations from staff, students and parents. Purchases of both print and electronic resources should have favorable professional journal reviews.

The overarching criteria for school library media collection are that the resources must:
• Align to and enrich the curriculum, learning outcomes/objectives of the instructional programs
• Contain accurate and current information
• Meet a variety of informational needs and interests of all students (readability levels)
• Provide a global perspective, being free of stereotypes and bias
• Offer a variety of viewpoints for controversial issues
• Meet the learning styles of the school population
• Be cost-effective in terms of accessibility and durability

Freedom to Read Act 

The Maryland Freedom to Read Act was signed into law in April of 2024. This is legislation designed to protect individuals' rights to access information and free expression. It prohibits the censorship or suppression of books, materials, or information based on content that is controversial or unpopular. The law aims to ensure that libraries, schools, and other institutions can provide diverse reading materials. Overall, it promotes intellectual freedom and safeguards against arbitrary restrictions on reading and information access. MD House Bill 785