Library
What is the purpose of Middle Ridge State School's library?
- To support the school's curriculum by assisting all learners to become effective users of information and ideas (i.e. information literate);
- To provide all students with access to a range of current, adequate and appropriate resources which meet their academic, social and creative needs;
- To ensure that all staff members have with a variety of resources to support classroom programs;
- To guarantee a stimulating learning and recreational environment for students, staff and the wider school community;
- To support the school's student leadership plan via a library volunteer program.
Who are the library's clients/patrons?
The library and its resources are available for use by the school's students and staff members. Other members of the school community may also access the library's resources.
When is the library open?
The library hours are 8:15am - 3:30pm from Monday to Friday. (The library is closed during the afternoon tea break. When there is an afternoon staff meeting, the library closes at 3:15pm.) Students may borrow before and after school, during the lunch break and (with their class) during school. Parents and other members of the school community generally borrow before and after school.
What are the responsibilities of borrowers?
Student borrowers must use a library bag. The student loan period is usually two weeks, however the loan period may be extended. Borrowers are accountable for library resources and there is a replacement policy for lost and damaged items.
What are the roles and responsibilities of the library staff?
The library staff includes a full-time teacher librarian, library aides (who also work in other areas of the school) and volunteers, including student library volunteers. The library staff supports the school's mission by delivering a range of education, client, technical and media services to students, staff and the school community.
What are the desired outcomes of the library?
The services provided by library staff aim to ensure that
- all students will develop comprehensive information literacy abilities;
- all students will acquire a knowledge and an appreciation of a variety of literature genres;
- all staff members are offered support through resources, collaborative programs and professional development activities, where appropriate;
- there is a balanced, current collection of a range of resource types, developed through a collaboratively devised collection development and selection plan;
- ready access to resources is arranged through a well-maintained and networked library automation system;
- a stimulating learning and recreational environment is prepared for library users.
What will indicate that the library resource centre is achieving its purpose?
- Students and staff are able to use information literacy skills to define, locate, select, organise, create and assess appropriately and effectively;
- Students and staff respond positively to the works of authors and illustrators in a variety of ways;
- Staff members seek and are given support in developing classroom programs and in their own professional development;
- Staff and students have access to a range of resources appropriate to achieving their program outcomes, and to their teaching and learning styles and needs;
- Library clients are confident users of OPAC (online public access catalogue) and experience success in their inquiries;
- Appropriate accommodation is provided for class groups, small groups and individuals;
- Displays of resources and student work stimulate and involve library users.