A collection of twenty-one essays on independent school libraries, covering statistical information on private schools and their libraries, offering insights into best practices for service to the communities, and providing perspectives on staffing, assessment, budgeting, and other topics.

The first book published about independent school libraries since 1985, this work offers both the independent school library community and the broader school library community a wealth of insights into excellence in library practice. Independent School Libraries: Perspectives on Excellence offers readers insights into best practices in library services for school communities, using examples drawn from independent schools of various sizes, descriptions, and locations across the United States. Two overview essays introduce a statistical analysis of independent schools. Each of the remaining essays provides perspective on a different aspect of library practice, including staffing, advocacy, assessment, technology, collaboration, programs beyond the curriculum, intellectual freedom and privacy, budgeting, accreditation, disaster planning, and more. Because independent school librarians work across divisions and without a mandate to adhere to state or national standards, they have the freedom to explore and refine best practice in a school library setting. Fortunately, the ideas and methods they have developed, many of which are on display here, can be applied in any school library.

Looks at why school libraries need careful planning and attention to maximise both use and educational values. Ideas on how to decide on signage and furniture placement. There are 12 case studies of school libraries from around Victoria, including primary, secondary, state, Catholic and independent schools.