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

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

MrLibS
The Education Service Center Region 12 is pleased to announce that we have entered into a partnership with other ESCs in Texas to provide schools in the region with an opportunity to participate in a Multi-regional Library System (MrLibS) consortium. The consortium provides librarians and libraries with state-of-the-art resources as a cost-effective alternative when considering the total cost of ownership and quality of services and resources. 

More information on Multi-regional Library Consortium

Online Resources
Looking for an alternative to Google?  Here are some databases that can provide authoritative information for research and projects.

Facts on File
Encyclopedic On-line Databases are a comprehensive collection of reference data and information presented in a clear and organized framework which allows for powerful searching and customization capabilities. Contact Sherry McElhannon for renewal.

K-12 Databases
The state-wide opt-in K-12 Databases program provides access to online research databases. Resources currently include a broad range of age appropriate, authoritative and relevant materials from Britannica Digital Learning and EBSCO Publishing. Access is 24/ 7/ 365 to students, teachers, parents and school leaders from school and home. 

Digital Knowledge Central
DKC is an ESC-20 statewide initiative that exists to provide participating Texas public and non public schools with a comprehensive collection of current, relevant online resources that supplement and enhance K-12 instruction and digital literacy. DKC's low statewide negotiated pricing offers a solution to fit different budgets.

Texas Educational Technology “Group” Purchasing Consortium
Provided by ESC 11, Texas Educational Technology Purchasing Consortium (TETPC) is a non-membership "Group" Purchasing Consortium created for statewide buying power for Texas schools. They believe that all schools should have the opportunity to purchase online resources at a large-volume discounted price. TETPC strives to provide the best resources at the best prices for all public, private and charter schools.

Contact: Sherry McElhannon
Title: Library ~ Media Specialist
Phone: (254) 297-1291
E-mail: smcelhannon @esc12.net

More Information