The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and the School Library

With the growth and expansion of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, librarians involved in the process of applying for or already participating in it will find this title extremely beneficial and informative. Based on the personal experience and background of the author and a two-year study of actual students participating in the program, the text provides a wealth of information. The introduction discusses the growth of IB and the role of the library in the program and curriculum. Subsequent chapters continue with further explanation of the IB and its vision, the organization and structure, available forums for support and information, resources, grading and evaluating student progress, diploma requirements, and the breakdown of subjects into six representative groups of study. A section on the Theory of Knowledge, TOK, and the extended essay suggest ways to create a major focus of support for the library. Remaining chapters discuss academic honesty and the roles of teachers, librarians, and administrators. Each chapter concludes with a list of strategies for the librarian. Within every chapter, librarians are encouraged to be involved in all aspects of the program, responding to the needs of students and working with teachers. Seven appendixes include a list of TOK resources, a sample library help sheet for students, several book lists, and a sample policy for essay donations, followed by a glossary of terminology and acronyms, an extensive reference list, and a detailed index.—Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE