The Library Services Co-operative is designed to offer up-to-date training, technical assistance, informational updates and networking opportunities for librarians, library aides, and their support staff.  The following are examples of services from which you will benefit when you become a member of the co-op:

• Free or reduced-cost workshops
• “Best Practices” Library Services networking meetings
• Training and technical support for the Online Reference Resources
• Library consultation
• Parent volunteer strategies
• Web development training
• Collection development assistance
• Reference services for librarians

For non-co-op members, standard workshop fees apply.

Library Services at ESC Region 12 include:

• Librarian staff development workshops
• Online Reference Resources

Join the Librarian's listserv to keep up with the latest library services, news and workshop offerings from Region 12!

K-12 Databases

During the 2009 session, the Texas State Legislature re-authorized funding for the K-12 Databases Program.  This program includes both resources from the EBSCO Host databases, and Encyclopedia Britannica Online School Edition.  Both subscription databases are available free of charge to any public school in Texas. 

The K-12 databases provide:

• A comprehensive collection of full text periodicals, biographies, primary source documents, essays, almanacs, reference books, pamphlets, newspapers, transcripts, photos, maps and more!
• Information that is safe, accurate, validated, current, and best of all, FREE!
• World atlas, dictionary, and thesaurus
• Teacher resources, including full-text professional journals
• Materials aligned with state curriculum standards
• Customizable workspace
• Age-appropriate search interfaces

For a username and password, contact your librarian or the K-12 Databases Team at Region 20.

In-depth training on the use of these databases is available at the ESC Region 12.  Check the events listings to find an upcoming workshop, or contact Sherry McElhannon to arrange for training.

Access the K-12 Databases today !