Managing a Resource Centre
Whilst institutions will have different circumstances, facilities and policies to support the provision of information for young people, there are a number of key criteria (standards) that should be met to ensure that the Connexions Resource Centre / Careers library meets young people's information entitlements. For example:
Access
- Is the Resource Centre promoted around the institution and are young people formally introduced to the facility?
- Are the opening times clearly displayed and is the Resource Centre open when young people will want to use it?
- Is the physical location of the Resource Centre easy to get to?
- Are shelves and resources clearly labelled?
- Are paper-based resources filed tidily so that items are easy to find?
- Is ICT access provided to careers education software?
- Is suitable training provided for pupils and staff?
- Is there a member of staff available to help young people access information where necessary?
- Is the environment welcoming and conducive to study?
Information Provision
- Does the range of information provided meet young people's information entitlements
- Is information provided in a range of formats e.g. Are there resources which are appropriate for those with learning difficulties and/or disabilities? Is there access and signposting to web based resources?
- Is information provided from a trusted and impartial source?
- Is there adequate signposting to other information resources within the institution, such as the sixth form library?
Maintenance
- Is there a system of formal maintenance for the Resource Centre?
- Are all resources up-to-date (ideally less than 2 years old)?
- Is there a budget for maintaining the Resource Centre?
- Are new resources researched and ordered on a regular basis?
- Are all posters and signs up-to-date and in good repair?
Involving Young People
- Have young people been involved in the development of your Resource Centre?
- Have you asked them whether it meets their needs?
- Are young people involved in maintaining the Resource Centre?
Self Assessment
Click here for a useful check list for you to use when assessing your Connexions Resource Centre / Careers Library.
