Vernon Elementary Library Strategic Plan

Vernon Magnet Elementary School

Library Strategic Plan
2018-2020

Melissa Carroll 1/24/13 LIS 6409 Dr. Gathegi

VERNON ELEMENTARY LIBRARY STRATEGIC PLAN

Introductory Memorandum

To the Principal, Staff, Board of Directors and PTA:

I am delighted to present you with a two-year strategic plan for the Vernon Elementary
Magnet School Library. The recent tornado at our school, requires that our entire collection be
replaced. Due to the scope of such an undertaking, the media center collection rebuilding will
need to be done in stages, over a period of two years. This comprehensive and student-focused
plan will serve as a road map for re-building our library into a 21st century facility and by doing
so, transforming the lives of our students and teachers as well. In the rapidly evolving world that
we live in, not only is the information landscape constantly changing, but also new technologies
are continuously emerging. In re-building, we hope to enforce and empower students to become
innovative thinkers who achieve academically and socially through our 7 Wonders (Leadership,
Environment, Economics, Wellness, Innovation, Communication and Culture) curricular
connections and real world experiences. In order to stay relevant in this turbulent sea of change,
our school libraries must adapt and face the challenges that these changes present.
To this end, the strategic plan will be focusing on re-building our collection and improving
technology services for our school. Based on the inclusive and thorough research completed for
this plan, it was determined that the collection be focused on materials that are used regularly
within the classroom as well as the materials necessary for students to be able to adequately
complete their coursework. We will re-build adding adequate spaces for our students and staff to
utilize. The technology area of our library will also receive additional attention. By following the
strategic plan through, we will be able to increase the access to information, encourage learning,
foster literacies and help our students improve their technological knowledge and skills.
Two years from now, this plan will allow the library re-build and become the hub of the school.
We will be a cutting edge media center that is conductive to research, learning and curriculum
needs. To achieve this future vision of the Vernon Magnet library, we should be devoting our
resources and efforts to carrying out this strategic plan. The plan contains extensive
documentation of the planning process and goals that include specific objectives, activities, and
evaluation procedures.
Sincerely,
Melissa Carroll
VERNON ELEMENTARY LIBRARY STRATEGIC PLAN

Table of Contents

Vision Statement……………………………………………………………………….. 1

Mission Statement.............................................................................................................1

Planning Methodology......................................................................................................2

Assessment of User Needs………………………………………………………………3

Teacher Survey.………………………………………………………………...………..3

Student Survey…………………………………………………………………………..6

Summary of Survey Results ...........................................................................................10

Community Forum Results…………………………………………………………….12

Library Profile……………………………………………………………………….…13

S.W.O.T Analysis………………………………………………………………………15

Strategic Goals and Objectives ......................................................................................16

Strategic Plan…………………………………………………………………………..17

Conclusion......................................................................................................................18

References......................................................................................................................19
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School Vision: Our vision is that we will be an “A” school where students become lifelong

learners, achieving global success by understanding and valuing our world and its inhabitants.

School Mission: Our mission is that we will empower students to become innovative thinkers

who achieve academically and socially through our 7 Wonders (Leadership, Environment,

Economics, Wellness, Innovation, Communication and Culture) curricular connections and real

world experiences.

Library Vision Statement: The Vernon Elementary School Library Media Program seeks to

create a 21st century environment that promotes learning for all students by providing equitable

access to information, teaching information literacy skills, and encouraging lifelong learning.

The library media center strives to be a center of collaborative learning that produces creative

students who have an appreciation of literature, critical thinking skills, and a respect for others

and self.

Library Mission Statement: The mission of the Vernon Elementary School Library is to

provide students with the opportunity to become not only lifelong users of information, but also

creators of information. The library will support the curriculum by collaborating with teachers,

developing a collection that is representative of the community, and implementing literacy

instruction for students.

Planning Methodology: The recent tornado at our school, Vernon Elementary Magnet School,

requires that our entire collection be replaced. Due to the scope of such an undertaking, the

media center collection rebuilding will need to be done in stages, over a period of two years,

according to importance to the curriculum. This plan is for the first stage, which is the core of the

collection, meaning those materials that are vital to the school’s curriculum. This will include
VERNON ELEMENTARY LIBRARY STRATEGIC PLAN

materials that are used regularly within the classroom as well as the materials necessary for

students to be able to adequately complete their coursework. Our electronic databases and

subscriptions are intact, so focus during this first stage will be devoted to physical resources such

as books and print serials. We will reference our electronic resources to determine what subjects

are already covered, but during this stage we will not be looking to further expand our electronic

resources. Using a random sampling technique, 100 students will be surveyed, as well as all of

the teaching staff at Vernon Elementary Magnet School. These surveys requested that students

and teachers answer questions regarding their use of the library. The school will also host a

Community Forum, holding two meetings with the leadership committee, the board of directors,

the PTA, as well as with individual teaching teams, on how to proceed with allocation of monies

for a new collection in the Media Center. On the following pages, please see an attached copy of

the survey questions for students and teachers.

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Assessment of User Needs:

Survey Questions:

Teacher Survey
1. What media format do you use most with your class?
a. print resources
b. audiovisual resources
c. electronic resources (eBooks, research materials, etc.)
d. physical resources (equipment, kits, etc.)

2. What media format do you use least with your class?

a. print resources
b. audiovisual resources
c. electronic resources (eBooks, research materials, etc.)
d. physical resources (equipment, kits, etc.)

3. Why do you use this format less than the others? Select all that apply.
a. This format is not appropriate for my subject area
b. The resources available do not fit my curriculum
c. The resources available are out of date and/or inaccurate
d. There is not enough material in this format to suit my needs
e. I didn't know these resources were available

4. Is there a media format you would like to use more with your class, but cannot due to the
limitations of the current collection?
a. No
b. yes, print resources
c. yes, audiovisual resources
d. yes, electronic resources (eBooks, research materials, etc)
e. yes, physical resources (equipment, kits, etc.)
f. yes, other (please specify)

5. I help determine what activities, policies and materials are a part of the library media
program.
a. Strongly agree
b. Agree
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c. Disagree
d. Strongly Disagree

6. The media specialist regularly communicates with the staff about programming and
resources using a variety of methods.
a. Strongly Agree
b. Agree
c. Disagree
d. Strongly Disagree

7. The media budget for books, audio-visual materials, computer software, and equipment is
adequate to meet my students’ needs.
a. Strongly Agree
b. Agree
c. Disagree
d. Strongly Disagree

8. Resources for the media center are carefully chosen to reflect curriculum and student
needs, and the resources are of high quality.
a. Strongly Agree
b. Agree
c. Disagree
d. Strongly Disagree

9. The resources in the media center should be easy to locate, readily accessible, well
maintained, and up-to-date.
a. Strongly Agree
b. Agree
c. Disagree
d. Strongly Disagree

10. The media center curriculum plays an important part in the total educational program at
the school.
a. Strongly Agree
b. Agree
c. Disagree
d. Strongly Disagree
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11. The media center should be adequately available for my use, whole class use, and
individual or small group student use.
a. Strongly Agree
b. Agree
c. Disagree
d. Strongly Disagree

12. The media specialist helps me and my team meet our instructional objectives.
a. Strongly Agree
b. Agree
c. Disagree
d. Strongly Disagree

13. Please list the best characteristic(s) of your school’s library media program:
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

14. Please list the way(s) the library media program could be improved to better serve you
and your students.
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
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Student Survey
Directions: As the Librarian reads the sentence, color the face that shows what you think.

Yes Sometimes No

1. I enjoy going to the library.

2. I like to read books in the library for

fun.

3. I can get help from the Librarian if I

need it.

4. I use eBooks in the library.

5. I feel comfortable asking my

Librarian questions.

6. The Librarian teaches me more about

what we are learning in the classroom.

7. There are enough computers and

printers in the library to help me
complete my assignments.

8. I learn new things in the library.

9. The library provides enough online

resources (computer) to help me
complete my assignments.
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10. I want my library to be nice looking

and inviting (comfortable).

Yes Sometimes No

11. I have enough time to find the

books I want in the library.

12. I can find the types of books and

magazines that I like to read in the
library.

13. I enjoy using the Makerspace studio

in the library.

14. I feel comfortable using the

computers in the library.

15. The librarian at the reference desk

is helpful and teaches me how to find
books and other resources in the
library.

16. What books, magazines, and computer programs would you like for the library?
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________

17. What kinds of books or topics would you like to see added to our library?
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
18. Comments that you would like to add about visiting our library:
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
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Additional Survey Questions for Upper Grade Students

1. Check the way you learn the best:
a. Visual (Seeing...)
b. Auditory (Hearing...)
c. Tactile (Touching/Manipulating objects...)

2. Check the types of media you enjoy:

a. Books
b. Video
c. Audio Books
d. Comic Books
e. Newspapers
f. Internet Sites
g. Magazines
h. Music

3. Check the mediums you use or have used.

a. VHS/Cassette
b. Records/LP
c. Computers/Tablets
d. Floppy Drives
e. Hard Drives
f. Printers
g. Copiers
h. Headphones
i. iPod or Digital Music Player
j. CDs
k. DVDs/Blu-ray discs

4. Check what kind of classes you might enjoy.

a. Video Production
b. Podcasting
c. Music Production
d. Basic Web design
e. Basic Word Processing
f. Basic Computer Class
i. Windows
ii. macOS
iii. iOS
VERNON ELEMENTARY LIBRARY STRATEGIC PLAN

g. Designing Powerful Presentations

h. Basic Research

Survey Results
It is imperative that our library support the Magnet programs at Vernon Elementary Magnet

School. The diversity of the population of Vernon Magnet is an integral part to better

understanding the needs of the students and the community. Ethnicity is an important aspect

when developing a new collection because it is extremely important to have books and materials

that represent the students who use them, as well as to provide support for our Global Studies

Programs. The following data was collected from both students and faculty of Vernon Magnet in

a survey questionnaire regarding the size of the library collection, the availability of books they

are able to check out, the relevance of learning/research materials, as well as the area in which

the Vernon library is lacking the most.

Results of Teacher and Student Surveys

Teacher Survey Results

● The data collected from the Teacher survey is used to compile a list of programs and books to
help teachers/students achieve the goals of the Florida State Standards. (Curriculum)
● The data shows a need to increase the eBook collection as well as acquire Kindles for student
use.
● 50% Agree they have input in determining what activities, policies and materials are a part of
the library media program.
● 35% Agree that the media specialist regularly communicates with the staff about programming
and resources using a variety of methods.
● 80% Agree that the resources in the media center should be easy to locate, readily accessible,
well maintained, and up-to-date.
● 50% Agree that the media center curriculum plays an important part in the total educational
program at the school.
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● 90% Agree that the media center should be adequately available for whole class use, and
individual or small group student use.
● 75% Agree that the resources for the media center are carefully chosen to reflect curriculum
and student needs, and the resources are of high quality.
● There was a request for space for all grade level teachers to meet separately for planning
purposes, as well a functional larger conference room for entire group trainings of all faculty.
● There was a recommendation for the addition of at least two areas for projection, with each of
the separate teacher planning rooms having at least a 40” or larger HDTV with connectivity for
the various technology available to teachers and students.
● There was a recommendation to add materials regarding environmentalism and recycling to
support the Executive Green Team recycling program.
● There was a recommendation to add coding materials or a MakerSpace area to support the
program Ms. Rodriguez had previously implemented .

Student Survey Results

● Using a random sampling technique 100 students surveyed.

● Overall, 43% were satisfied with the quality of services.
● 63% enjoy going to the library.
● 35% feel there are enough online resources (computer) to help complete assignments.
● 50% would like to see additional materials.
● 40% use e-books.
● 80% use physical books.
● 10% have used the reference desk for help.
● 80% would like to use a Makerspace studio in the library.
● 80% would like more computers and printers in the library to help complete their assignments.
● 100% think it is important for the library to be a comfortable, inviting setting.
● 50% feel comfortable using the computers in the library.
● 40 % stated that the Librarian teaches them more about what they are learning in class.
● 56% stated that they learn new things in the library.
● 46% feel comfortable asking the Librarian questions.
● 82% would like additional time to find the books they want in the library.
VERNON ELEMENTARY LIBRARY STRATEGIC PLAN

● Students answered that they use computers/tablets, printers, copiers, headphones, iPod,
DVDs/Blu-ray discs and would like to see these mediums in the new library.
● Students answered that they use books, audio books, graphic novels, internet sites, magazines
and music in the library and would like to see more of these mediums in the new library.
● There were requests to add additional books about butterflies.
● There were requests to add additional books to support Global Studies.
● There were requests to add additional Graphic Novels to the collection.
● There were requests to add additional technologies such as iPads to the new media center.
● There were requests for additional classes in Video Production, Podcasting, Music Production
and Basic Web design

Community Forum Results

There have been two meetings with the leadership committee, the board of directors, the

PTA, as well as with individual teaching teams, on how to proceed with allocation of monies for

a new collection in the Media Center. Since the school focus is divided between World Studies

and Technology it is suggested that there be space for technology somewhere in the school as

well as a special section concerning World Studies for all grade levels. At Vernon there was a

separate computer lab across the building from the library, so it has been suggested that it be

adjacent, if not attached to the media center, in the new school. It was suggested that we add

more space, so it is more than adequate for multiple sessions. There was a request for spaces for

all grade level teachers to meet separately for planning purposes, as well a functional larger

conference room for entire group trainings of all faculty. They have suggested there be at least

two areas for projection, however they accept that there can also be one high resolution

projection screen and setup for the large conference room, with each of the separate teacher

planning rooms having at least a 40” or larger HDTV with connectivity for the various

technology available to teachers and students. Technology at Vernon before the tornado
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consisted of six laptop carts, one for each grade level. While that worked for a while, it became

difficult during when standardized testing began. As a result, we would like to supplement these

laptop carts with an extra unit of 24 PC’s for a total of seven carts, and add twice as many PC’s

to 40 desktops in the computer lab for when testing becomes necessary during the school year.

With budget concerns being what they are in Citrus County, we are fine with compromising the

number of functioning PC’s carts in the first 2 years after the school opens, before we would like

to pursue increasing the amount of computers at the school.

Library Profile

Historical data of the existing collection was not recorded digitally and all locally stored

records, digital or other, were lost in the tornado. It is therefore assumed that there were some

books on the subjects of Technology and World Studies. Specifically countries that each grade

could use for research about their respective grade level country of choice. We know from the

meetings with key informants that the 3rd Grade country must reside in the continent of Africa.

Other places studied are K-North America, 1st-South America, 2nd-Australia, 4th-Asia, 5-

Europe. Therefore, it is presumed there would be a wide representation, fiction and nonfiction,

of books containing information and stories from all these places in the New School Media

Center. It is also assumed that the collection of physical books might be organized by grade

level, or reading level to make the choices easier per student.

In addition, we have held lessons with more advanced or gifted children on the subject of

coding using computers. Last year we collaborated with Ms. Dunhil, to instruct her gifted

students in HTML website coding. While there might have been some basic “coding for

dummies” books available in the collection, it is also known that these types of coding lessons

could be taught using an online resource like Kahn Academy. Therefore it will be necessary to
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acquire ways in which children at the new school can have access to this online curricula using

computers and other technologies to help them pursue this concentration, and also make sure

there are some physical texts they can check out on the subject of coding.

While the school district would normally allocate a base amount, we have requested extra

money due to all Media Center resources lost in the tornado. Here is an itemized list for money

allocation:

Special Monies Allocation Request

1. Collection size: approximately 800 books.

2. Shelving for collection, about 20 5 x 6 feet in size.

3. 15 (6 x 4) tables with four chairs per table.

4. 3 Desktop Windows PC’s with one Laser Printer per classroom.

5. One wall mounted Projector per classroom

6. One SmartBoard device per classroom

7. 4 AV carts

8. One Projector and screen with full cart in the Media Center.

9. One CCTV editing suite with professional JVC camera.

10. 4 Video grade lights @500watts for CCTV broadcasting suite

11. 1 Windows PC for librarian use.

12. 2 Windows Touch PC’s with Scanning Wand and compatible software for collection
management/check in/out use.

13. One green screen for compositing AV effects for CCTV

14. One audio 16x2 audio mixing console with three microphones for CCTV
VERNON ELEMENTARY LIBRARY STRATEGIC PLAN

15. One Windows Server for Website Hosting with Server software.

16. 4 large copiers in the Faculty lounge for copies.

S.W.O.T. Analysis
Strengths
• 100% of classes visit the library
• Collection is geared toward curricular needs of school
• Staffed full-time
• Open on a flexible schedule

Weaknesses
• The collection at this time is non-existent due to the devastation from the tornado.
• Not enough specialized spaces for staff and students.
• Average hours open before and after school are lower than most other elementary schools
in the area.
• Large task at hand.

Opportunities
• Potential users include the families of the students at Vernon. Along with these new users
is an opportunity to increase circulation.
• Parent involvement in the school is high, especially economically, as reflected by the
lucrative fund drives held throughout the academic year.
• There is also the opportunity to educate the school and District on the importance of
having a fully staffed library.
• The opportunity to re-build the entire media center geared toward student centered
learning.

Threats
• Budgetary constraints.
• There is also the issue of whether the school and the District understand the importance
of a teacher-librarian versus a library paraprofessional. A lack of education on this issue is a
threat; educating them might be an opportunity.
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Goals
1. Develop a core collection of physical materials that meets the minimum needs of our
school community.
2. Our goal is to increase the amount of traffic and overall usefulness of the library media
center in the new building.
3. Provide and complement the World Studies concentration that is fostered at Vernon
Magnet.
4. Provide and complement the Technology concentration that is fostered at Vernon
Magnet.
5. Provide safe and creative spaces in the Media Center for small and large group studies as
well as meetings.
6. Foster a collaborative teaching experience to each student by enhancing teachers’ lessons
and encourage more visits to library.
 VERNON ELEMENTARY LIBRARY STRATEGIC PLAN

Vernon Elementary Plan:

Action: Responsibilities: Timeline: Resources: Potential Communications Plan:
Who will do it? Barriers:
What will be done? By When, A: Resources Who is involved? What methods? How
Date/Month? available. A: What often?
individuals/organi
B: Resources zations might
needed-financial, resist?
human, political,
other? B: How?

Step 1: Rebuild a basic Media specialists with Building A: Electronic A: School Board. Media Specialist and Faculty
collection. the help from the Completion: Resources, B: Reallocate
Needs Assessment January 1, Year? eBooks. funds or suggest
other types of
B: Physical media
resources,
reference

Step 2: Increase Library Media specialists Weekly Grade A: Time and A: Other school Media Specialist and Faculty
Traffic and Usefulness of collaborate directly Level Meetings, Specialist meetings and
Materials with lead teachers and Daily availability ongoing school
each grade level activities
meetings.

Step 3: World Studies Media Specialist can Part of weekly A: Weekly (No known Media Specialist and Faculty
Enhancements/Collaborati order materials that teacher planning meeting times. B: immediate
on will enhance this Librarian barriers)
theme. flexibility with
scheduling
conflicts

Step 4: Technology Media Specialist can Technology class A: Computers and A: Faculty B: Media Specialist and Computer Lab.
Enhancements/Collaborati order materials and sessions could online resources FSA Testing uses Twice a week to start.
on teach classes using begin twice a exist. B: An the computer lab.
technologies. week in the HTML/coding MakerSpace weekly.
Addition of beginning, and instructional book
MakerSpace could be
voluntary.

Step 5: Safe Spaces for Media Specialist and Upon Building A: Faculty ideas A: Faculty Media Specialist with Faculty
Small/Large Groups building itself. Three Completion. about open spaces
conference rooms and for group B: Faculty not
floor planning can collaboration. B: available to give
create open areas. Comfy chairs, input, don’t feel a
small but part of decisions,
functional tables, or teachers cannot
Conference tables agree on layout.

Step 6: Enhance Media Specialist can Weekly class A: Time A: Media Specialist and Faculty
Teaching/Learning in all schedule class visits sessions that are Communication
Subject Areas and Lesson Plan with scheduled. B: Flexibility
Teachers when scheduling B: Teachers may
issues arise. not have time to
read emails or
VERNON ELEMENTARY LIBRARY STRATEGIC PLAN

Conclusion

It is with this Strategic Plan that we move forward and implement the physical objectives
when the new building is ready for school. This completes our plan and helps us achieve our
vision in the new building. It is our hope this Strategic Plan for Vernon Elementary Magnet is
accurate in all the data we have received from all parties, and truly reflects all who will work,
learn, visit, and represent our school at our new Media Center—in the new Vernon building that
Citrus County has graciously offered resources to begin building in the near future. Thank you
to Principal Deke Simmons, Vice Principal Mimi Corcoran, the school’s Magnet Lead Sadie
Dunhil, all Vernon Faculty and Staff, all Parents and their wonderful Children, PTA President
Ellen Dockerty, and finally the Vernon Board of Directors for all of their help during this process
that brings us all a step closer to realizing our vision. While damage from the tornado rendered
our school building a loss with no recovery possible, we know that in the next two years there
will be a fantastic new building that soars up high, and inside there will be our new Media Center
where all in our village can be safe to learn knowledge, find new ways to explore new ideas, and
finally grow into their future selves. With their growth in the halls of Vernon Magnet’s New
Building we will see Children and Teachers alike traveling to see the new media center-- and
with this valuable plan, we can make sure it grows and evolves with them. Thank you!
VERNON ELEMENTARY LIBRARY STRATEGIC PLAN

References
American Association of School Librarians. (2018). AASL Advocacy Toolkit: The key to
student achievement. Retrieved from
http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/aasl/aaslissues/toolkits/keystudentachievement.cfm
ALA (2018). Selection & Reconsideration Policy Toolkit for Public, School, & Academic
Libraries. Retrieved from
http://www.ala.org/tools/challengesupport/selectionpolicytoolkit
Citrus County Schools (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.citrus.k12.fl.us/
Milburn, J. & Van Brunt, C. (n.d.) Library Media Services Handbook. Retrieved from
https://www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/docs/00/00/13/30/Library_Media_Handbook.pdf