In years past, school library programs have operated on a "fixed" schedule. This type of schedule allows classes to visit the library usually at the same time and on the same day every week. However, things are changing and new philosophies are evolving. Schools across the country are moving from a "fixed" schedule to a "flexible" schedule.
             Flexible scheduling is the practice of allowing classes into the library media center at the time of need.1 It is management procedures for providing services, equipment, materials, and instruction in the use of the resources of the media center, for as many faculty and students as needed on any particular day. It serves to integrate skills and tools of learning with the content of the curriculum.2 This term "flexible schedule" means exactly what it says. The media specialist and the classroom teachers must be flexible and work as a team to provide proper implementation of this idea. Flexible scheduling provides time and space in the media center for groups of students to work on activities assigned by the teacher. The librarian and teacher plan together ahead of time to assure availability of space and material for a specified time. The group may be a whole class or small group. Activities may include research, library skills instruction, Internet activity, or many other types of learning adventures.
             What are the Benefits of Flexible Scheduling?
             Studies have proven that when teacher-librarians work with a flexible schedule more skills related to curriculum may be taught. When information is needed at 12:26 pm on Saturday afternoon it can be obtained by visiting the local public library. If an elementary school child has an information need, they may have to wait two, three, or even four days until their scheduled library class time, if operating on a fixed schedule. Flexible scheduling in the m
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