School libraries are an important component to our school learning environments, providing welcoming spaces to connect with people and information.

The impact of school libraries is far reaching; they help to improve student literacy, level the playing field, support student wellbeing, and prepare students for college, career, and life.

We provide equitable access to a wealth of information and resources, as well as opportunities for students to engage in collaboration and inquiry. Along with books, our libraries feature makerspaces for hands-on learning and creating; technology tools and devices that promote discovery and exploration; and clubs and student programs that build community and support student interests.

Each school library is managed by a Learning Coach / Librarian who partners with teachers to help coach instructional practices, critical thinking, problem solving, and communication. Library Aides at each building staff our circulation and help desks, assist with makerspace management, and provide support and supervision for small groups and classes.

Reader Selection

Given that our libraries promote freedom of choice and offer the opportunity for learners to self-select items, we strive to curate well-rounded library collections that include varying viewpoints and opinions. Our libraries will always have a wide range of choices for kids — to meet all of their varied needs, reading levels, backgrounds, and experiences, as well as to help them all develop a love of reading.

Families are encouraged to support students in library material selection by discussing family values, standards, and preferences, and by helping students identify reading options within the online library catalog. Selection of materials can be made together by viewing the school’s online library catalog (see sidebar) and placing a hold. The materials will then be set aside for the student to check out at their next library visit or delivered directly to the student's classroom. Please check with your school library staff for more information about where students can pick up their library holds.

Collection Development

Our librarians are certified teachers that curate content that meets school, teacher, and individual student needs. They select a wide variety of high quality materials after extensive research; in consultation of review sources; and in alignment with school / district data, district priorities and goals, and Board of Education Policy IJL. Concerns or complaints regarding library materials are processed in accordance with Policy KEC and KEC-R.

Materials in our school libraries are continually renewed to ensure students have access to current, relevant, and accurate information. Deselection is guided by a detailed set of principles, including consideration if items are worn, out of date, rarely used, supplied elsewhere, or no longer have merit. Items removed from circulation in our school libraries are handled in accordance with Policy DN.