I got started using a wiki site of worldwide school library blogs (K-12). Here's that link: http://www.blogwithoutalibrary.net/links/index.php?title=School_libraries
Goldenview Middle School, Anchorage, Alaska http://goldenviewlibrary.blogspot.com/
The blog functions much like a wiki actually with pictures of students and activities the library hosts. It provides a great deal of information such as: when to return books that have been borrowed throughout the year, Summer Reading Lists, news and updates on themes, projects and contests the school and community host, specialist visitors and upcoming events. It's even got a great section called "Spine Poetry" where books are stacked up to create poetic statements
Dickens Elementary School, North Las Vegas, Nevada http://mrsbentheim.edublogs.org
This blog puts my personal blog to shame. It's the most beautiful and complex blog I have ever seen! It covers everything from recent updates from the librarian (Mrs Bentheim) to reports to the school principal and administration to local school news. In addition it is home to the library newsletter, procedures, policies and latest greatest activities in the school by grade. It comes complete with videos, graphics, newsletters, etc.
Ward Melville High School, East Setauket, New York http://wardmelvillelibrary.blogspot.com/
This blog is more along the lines of what I expected from a school library blog. It's not bad it's just not flashy. Postings include assignments and projects from various participating teachers, Summer Reading Lists, what's going on at the Community Libraries, professional development for teachers and much more.
After taking a look at just these 3 blogs (I looked at some others but there were a few broken or missing links) the possibilities of library blogging are endless both from a content, user and visual standpoint. It's safe to say that I was amazed at how accessable and complex these blogs were. Some common themes included: Available Books and Publications, Procedures, Policies and Newsletters, News (what was happening in the library), Grade level information, Projects, Teachers and Students. I think library blogs are a terrific way for teachers who have a limited time to engage with the library and school media center to read, present and discuss topics of interest. It's also a great way for families to ask questions and stay connected to what's going on.
I personally do keep a blog (though I am not as faithful as it would like me to be). I try to update it quarterly. I started with a monthly post but that's just not possible to keep up with.
I think teachers are pretty scared of blogs. For the most part I think they see them as time consumers with little reward. Since many schools seem isolated (and many are geographically) I think blogging is a terrific way to connect teachers and their classes with other schools/classrooms around the world. A great way to initiate blogging might be through the pen pal concept (blogpal?) To get teachers involved in the school I think librarians could pull together a quick You Tube type video (or live) to demonstrate what it is and how to use it. IF it's short and compelling teachers will come. Oh and it never hurts to serve food.
