Library Web page

Salem Central School

Libraries

High School Library

Library Mission Statement

          To create an integrated library program that empowers            students to become responsible, independent, and effective users of ideas and information.

Elementary Library Philosophy

    The K-6 Library Media Program strives to combine literature, information and technology in order to provide students with a complete library experience by the time they enter 7th grade.
    With continually increasing access to information, students need to be able to retrieve, evaluate and incorporate information from a variety of resources. Currently, advancing technology has made information available to students by the touch of a button. It is crucial that students understand where the information is coming from and be able to evaluate it. Students will evaluate the source of the material and also its usefulness for completing their task.   The introduction of computers into the Library Media Center has made this an exciting time to work in the library, but these machines must not overshadow literature. Books and computer technology can combine to increase literature appreciation among students. A library program strives to foster a love of literature in its students. A primary goal of such a program is to create life-long readers. Students need to realize that reading can be done for enjoyment as well as for information. The power of literature lies in its ability to transport the reader. Through literature, readers can experience lives and times they would never otherwise know.

High School Library Philosophy

The high school library serves the total school population of faculty and students as a media center with a variety of print and non-print reference materials that supplement the school curriculum and that augment individual interests. As an instructional center, the library offers the opportunity for students to learn library research skills to become self-sufficient library users and to develop individual reading habits. Also, as a reference center, the library dispenses information, promotes research and provides a study area conducive to quiet reading and research.    With the use of the Internet, the high school library serves as an instructional center for students to learn how to effectively search for information, how to evaluate the vast amount of information available, and how to accurately cite the information used.