Metro Nashville Public Schools

Metro Schools Library Policies

How Library Materials are Selected

School librarians provide access to materials that have been carefully selected according to our selection procedure, and those materials reflect the age and maturity levels of the students in our schools. Librarians select materials that align to the educational mission of MNPS, their school, and our district. They periodically review library materials to ensure they are age appropriate for our students.

• MNPS mission: We deliver a great public education to every student every day.
• MNPS Libraries mission: Metro Nashville Public Schools Libraries develop students who are critical thinkers and thoughtful users of information through teaching, collaboration and a rich collection of resources. Our school libraries are diverse, student-centered learning hubs that promote teacher and student success through collaboration, inquiry, and literacy across all disciplines. We ensure equitable services and access to high quality, educational, relevant resources for students.

Every book is not for every reader, but every child should have access to books they may want to read. MNPS librarians strive to know their learners and assist them in finding books that fit their needs and interests. If your student checks out any library material your family deems inappropriate, please return the item to the school. Please talk with your child about your expectations for content they consume. Please partner with your child's librarian so they can understand your child's needs. Library Services is also here to offer guidance and support in helping your child grow as a reader and have a positive experience in our school libraries.

MNPS Library Policies

School librarians provide access to materials that have been carefully selected according to our Selection Procedure, and those materials reflect the age and maturity levels of the students in our schools. Librarians select materials that align with the educational mission of MNPS, their school, and our district. They periodically review library materials to ensure they are age appropriate for our students.

Mission

MNPS Mission

"We deliver a great public education to every student every day."

MNPS Libraries Mission

"Metro Nashville Public Schools Libraries develop students who are critical thinkers and thoughtful users of information through teaching, collaboration, and a rich collection of resources. Our school libraries are diverse, student-centered learning hubs that promote teacher and student success through collaboration, inquiry, and literacy across all disciplines. We ensure equitable services and access to high-quality, educational, relevant resources for students."

Every book is not for every reader, but every child should have access to books they may want to read. MNPS librarians strive to know their learners and assist them in finding books that fit their needs and interests. If your student checks out any library material your family deems inappropriate, please return the item to the school. Please talk with your child about your expectations for content they consume. Please partner with your child's librarian so they can understand your child's needs. Library Services is also here to offer guidance and support in helping your child grow as a reader and have a positive experience in our school libraries.

Reconsideration Procedure 

If a current MNPS parent/guardian, student, or staff member has a concern about a specific title(s), you are encouraged to discuss this with their school librarian first. If you decide further action is needed, you may pursue the reconsideration process via the Reconsideration Procedure.

Access to Limitless Libraries Materials

Limitless Libraries, our partnership with the Nashville Public Library, provides your child with access to books and materials at the Nashville Public Library. Your student may place a hold on an item, and it will be delivered to them at their school. We are grateful for this partnership that provides even more access to library materials. Last year, students in MNPS checked out nearly 100,000 items through Limitless Libraries.

• Elementary students, grades K-5, can only request items from the juvenile catalog while in the school building. If they are searching from home, we recommend they log-in the catalog first and select their school from the drop-down menu so that they are only searching in the juvenile catalog.
• Middle School and High School students (grades 6-12) have access to the full catalog.
• Students may request a DVD but they may not place a hold on R-Rated titles.

Limitless Libraries Opt-Out

If you prefer your child not receive items from the public library at school, your child's librarian can provide you with the Limitless Libraries “Opt-Out” form. Please complete the form and return it to your child's librarian.

Opting out only means your child will not receive items delivered to school. Your student may still visit any Nashville Public Library branch and check out items in person. They will also still be able to access Limitless Libraries databases.

Have a Concern?

If you have a concern about a book, please contact your child's school librarian. They are here to help. Please meet with them to discuss your concerns. They are here to partner with you to support your child's reading needs and interests. They are happy to learn more about the needs you have for your child and can put supports in place for your child. If Library Services can assist you in any way, please let us know.

State Policy for School Libraries

State of Tennessee Rules for School Libraries (see page 7-9)