Digital resources

Absolutely, digital resources are an important part of a school library's collection.  The technology is needed to support this, and it appears that there is money for technology (for "21st Century Learning").  For example, in many districts iPads are being promoted; TLs are being given one to convince them of their usefulness.  Their flexibility and mobility do make them a good option for library use.  They can now be used to word process and are cheaper than laptops or desktops.  But it is the access to resources that is the key here.  Reference material is certainly one area where digital access is most effective, allowing for current information that is easily accessible (and cheaper).  E-books I'm still exploring, and the cost for licenses is something that I worry may mount.  The free e-books should be better promoted as valuable resources.  Within the OPAC itself, there is a wealth of digital resources included selected websites which I was unaware of earlier.  The value of on-line databases cannot be underestimated and districts that have purchased these through district packages offer students an important opportunity in information literacy skills development. 
Teaching students first about the power of the OPAC, then having them explore on-line databases following a demonstration are important steps. I have had students express a degree of relief when they are aware that the sources there are different than by "Googling". It should increase their confidence in the information they are finding and make searching more efficient.  Lessons in  source credibility, however are still imperative. Some of the on-line tutorials on evaluation websites work very well.