About the CML

The Collection

Recommended fiction, nonfiction and picture books for children and young adults
Collections of professional handbooks and manuals for classroom preparation
Textbooks
Curriculum guides
Foreign language books for children
Childrens books by and about Native Americans
Educational media materials
Audio Visual materials include: Filmstrips, Cassettes, Videotapes, Kits, Games, Vertical file materials that could be used to supplement the classroom curriculum.

Background

The CML is a branch of the Oklahoma State University Library, and follows similar circulation and book renewal policies, interlibrary services and requirements for courtesy cards. Ask for printed policy guides at the CML Circulation Desk.

Facilities and History

In 1995, Oklahoma State University renovated Willard Hall for use by the College of Education, and the Curriculum Materials Library (CML) was able to move into a space in the basement of Willard Hall by January 1996. Never before had the CML been located in the same building as the College of Education. This has allowed students and faculty in the College of Education easy access to the CML materials and has increased CML useage dramatically.

Established in 1957 as a laboratory for both teachers and librarians, the CML provides materials for pre-kindergarten through grade 12 aged children and young adults. It contained materials to assist educators in preparing lesson plans and at that time served to demonstrate the kinds of materials and services that should be available in a good school library.

A library like the CML was the dream of Della Thomas (CML Librarian, 1957-1969) and Edmon Low (OSU Library Director, 1940-67). The original CML was located on the fourth floor of the Edmon Low Library. In the early 1960s, the CML moved to the fifth floor of the Library. Neysa Eberhardt (CML Librarian, 1969-1972) and Anne Hoyt (CML Librarian, 1972-1984) were the CML librarians during this time. In 1990, Donna Schwarz (CML Librarian, 1984-1994, 2001-present) supervised the CML's move to South Murray Hall.

In the early years of the CML collection, emphasis was placed on library science materials and featured many new library materials that could be reviewed by education students, local educators, and librarians. School librarians and teachers from around the region could review books and media in the CML prior to purchasing them for their own libraries. The CML currently emphasizes childrens literature and other materials that enhance classroom preparation and instruction.

In 1996, a generous gift from the Mary L. Williams Estate furnished the CML with new furniture and equipment. At this time, the CML moved to Willard Hall under the supervision of JoAnn Bierman (CML Librarian, 1994-1999). Shonda Brisco (CML Librarian, 2000-2001) further developed the CML's collection.

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