Documenting Classroom Collections with the Texas Collection Analysis Initiative

Abstract

Gilbert discusses the Texas Collection Analysis Initiative (TXCAI), launched by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) in August 2024 in partnership with TeachingBooks, which provides free statewide tools to help Texas educators manage and document classroom collections. This supports compliance with House Bill 900, which requires school districts to implement collection development policies for all library materials, including those in classrooms. Through TXCAI, educators can create, document, and share book lists, promoting transparency and collaboration. Over one million items have been logged, and tools have been updated based on educator feedback. Features include genre tracking, grade levels, and book resumes, helping improve collection diversity and quality. District administrators can now generate reports of all classroom collections, and educators receive ongoing support and training via webinars and resources. TXCAI not only aids compliance but also encourages a culture of reading across schools.