Library Services FAQ's

Library Services Frequently Asked Questions

Are there standards on how school libraries should function?

Yes, school libraries follow the School Library Program Standards and Guideline for Texas.

What are the qualifications of school librarians?

School librarians must have at least 2 years of teaching experience in the classroom, have completed a school librarian certification program, have a Master’s degree, and have successfully passed a librarian certification test. Link: Texas Administrative Code for School Librarian Certification

What’s the difference between a library book and an instructional resource?

While instructional materials and library books are both considered instructional resources, they are not the same and the terms should not be used interchangeably.

Since school and classroom libraries are viewed as places for voluntary inquiry, library books are treated differently from instructional materials used in classroom instruction. This distinction has legal significance and is explained on the TASB Instructional Materials and Library Books in Texas Public Schools document in the “Additional Considerations” section.

How do I access titles in my student’s library to find out what is available?

To view titles in a campus library, go to the district library catalog and click on your student’s campus link > Catalog tab.

To view titles in the Sora digital library, go to https://soraapp.com/welcome and log in with your student’s Google login credentials to view titles in the Sora collection. Sora is only available for secondary students in Comal ISD.

How do I access databases that students can use for research?

Students can access databases through their Class Link. If your student does not know the Comal ISD password, they need to reach out to their campus librarian.

How do librarians select books to purchase for the school library?

School librarians undergo yearly training and review Comal ISD Board policies EF Legal & EF Local. They also abide by the the following practices: Comal ISD Library Book Selection.

I have concerns about a book. What is my first step?

Please contact your student’s librarian and/or campus administrator to express your concern. Often initial conversations are enough to address concerns, but if you wish to continue a formal challenge, contact the campus administrator.

Why doesn’t the school district remove a book from the library collection while under formal reconsideration?

Per EF Legal, a district possesses significant discretion to determine the content of its school libraries. A district must, however, exercise its discretion in a manner consistent with the First Amendment.

Per EF Local, access to a challenged resource shall not be restricted during the reconsideration process, except the District may deny access to a child if requested by the child’s parent.

I’ve visited with my librarians and/or campus administrator and still have concerns. What are the next steps?

If there are still concerns after the material has been informally reviewed, please complete the Request for Reconsideration form from your child’s campus principal. Once received, the campus administrator will review the request and reach out about next steps in the reconsideration process.