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Roanoke County Book Selection Policy

The Roanoke County Public Schools library program has a book selection policy for our schools that supports the curriculum, incorporates current educational trends, and considers the needs, interests, and diversity of our students.

When selecting books for purchase, school librarians consider professional reviews and recommended reading ages. Nonfiction books are selected based on accuracy, scope, reliability, format, points of interest, and potential use. Materials on opposing sides of controversial issues are purchased so that students may develop critical thinking skills. Fiction books are selected based on the needs of the collection, popularity, quality, curriculum-connections, and professional book reviews. Recommendations from students and staff members are encouraged and honored when possible.  Donated books must meet the same criteria as newly purchased books.

Middle School Collections

In a library that serves students ranging in ages from eleven to fourteen, a wide variety of materials are needed. What is exciting and appropriate for eleven-year-olds may not be interesting or relevant for fourteen-year-olds and vice versa. When students first visit the library each year, Ms. Balsley will tell them that “Libraries are all about choice. If you choose a book that makes you uncomfortable or that would make your parents uncomfortable, please return it and find a book you can completely enjoy.” Parents can help students enjoy the library. Ask students what they are reading and talk to them about their choice.

Damage and Fines

Students are charged for damaged books that shorten the life of the book or ruin the book so that it can't be used anymore.  Sometimes this may included complete replacement of the title with an exact duplicate or replacement of a cover, protective item, or bar codes. 

After all books are returned our Circulation Specialist thoroughly checks them. Particular notice is given to the outside cover, spine, binding, and damage throughout the pages. The book is given to the Library Media Specialist who will then meet with the student individually to discuss the damage.

Damage fines are determined based on the cost of replacing the item.  It is also taken into consideration if the damage is repairable without having to use any book-repair materials.  Once a fee has been determined, the damage is recorded on the student’s patron record.  All library borrowing privileges are suspended until the library fine is paid.