ASSIGNMENT ALERTS

The Benicia Public Library shares with teachers

the desire to help students succeed. By working together,

we can enable students to have positive

and productive library visits.

What librarians can do:

Inform you of what resources the library offers. We may have more resources than you imagine -- or we may have fewer. It’s best to check before the assignment is given. Call the library, or check it yourself by using the SNAP catalog.

Reserve assignment materials for your students. If we have limited resources, we can reserve them for in-library use, ensuring access for all.

Assist students and teachers in using the library. We are always happy to help, and can be more helpful if we have prepared in advance. In addition to the books we can provide, we can show students web sites that will assist them with specific assignments.

Suggest alternate resources. Perhaps the library does not have every title on your required reading list, but working together we can come up with acceptable alternatives.

What teachers can do:

Notify the library of assignments in advance. This will allow librarians to check resources and prepare for the necessary number of students. To fill out an assignment alert online go to Request Partner, make a request. Look up Library Services and Teacher’s Assignment Alert and fill out the form. The Children’s Services Librarian or the Teen Services Librarian will process your request.

Discuss research methods and possible sources with students. Let them know where you want them to start looking for information, but be sure to tell them what other resources are acceptable.

Be flexible in assigning subjects and with requirements for sources. If you assign a very specific topic, resource, or number of pages, please check to ensure availability. Your flexibility allows more students to succeed at their research.

Be aware of your students’ abilities and skills and be realistic about what you expect them to accomplish.

Give clear expectations for the assignment to students and librarians. Try to provide a written copy of the assignment to everyone concerned.

Encourage students to ask for help from library staff. We are here to help!

Thank you for working together with us to make your students’ library experiences successful.