Library Services

Northshore Libraries follow school board procedure 2021P, which outlines criteria for materials selection for libraries. It is important to note that these criteria differ slightly from curriculum selection criteria, as the purpose and nature of the materials in a library differs from curricular materials.  Library selection criteria include a review of:

• Alignment with district-wide learning objectives and instructional strategies;
• Needs of the school, curriculum, and/or individual students;
• Artistic and literary quality;
• Readability and breadth of information with particular concern for the contributions (current and historical) of varied genders and members of the several specific religious, ethnic, political, and cultural groups;
• Age appropriate content that may include sexual reference, profanity, and/or violence is subjected to careful evaluation of literary merit;
• Professional reviews and the judgment of teachers, principals, and teacher-librarian peers to aid in the selection process. 

Consistent with school board procedure 2021P, a person who wishes to question library materials should submit a reconsideration request via this form.  The submission will be routed to the appropriate school or district administrator and librarian who will review the submission and contact the submitter.

Submitters will be asked to provide:

• Name and contact information
• A description of the portion(s) of the content that are objectionable and rationale
• Suggestions for alternative texts or materials
• A recommendation for action to take with the material

Fines are assessed for lost and damaged materials.  Fines can be paid through our InTouch service.  If a fine is paid for lost material and the material is found after payment, the material can be returned to the school for a refund only if the material is returned within 120 days of assessment of the fine.  If you have questions about a fine for library materials, please contact your school librarian.