Library

The library holds a wealth of information and pleasure for the entire school community. Students in Preschool through Grade 6 attend scheduled library classes and are encouraged to visit the library for research and quiet study. Upper School students receive assistance in researching topics, understanding cataloging systems, and using library facilities as they prepare for research and extended writing projects. Parents may also use library materials at any time. There is a special Parent-Teacher Resource Center containing information on timely issues concerning children and parenting.

Students are expected to be responsible for the care of the materials they use, and limitations are enforced if the regulations are not followed. Books have a one-to-three week loan period based upon the child's grade. If the books are not returned or renewed, the student will not be permitted to check-out other materials until the obligations are met. Parents are responsible for the replacement cost of materials not returned to the library.

Birthday Book Program

Students and their families may help build the library collection by participating in the "Birthday Book" program, which is administered by the librarian. On his or her birthday, a child may select a book of his or her choice to donate to the library. A bookplate is placed in the book indicating that it was presented to the library by that child. Students are given three notifications to select a book. If the student fails to respond, a book will then be selected by the librarian. Parents should contact the librarian if they are not comfortable with this policy.

A book given to this program can be used to mark a variety of occasions: a holiday gift, a memorial, a simple "thank you," an anniversary, or as a surprise. Simply select a book in the library, a name plate will be placed in the book indicating the recipient and the donor, and the school will present the gift. The donor may read the book, then return it to the St. Edmund's Academy collection when finished. Such a gift keeps giving to many students, now and into the future. Click here to participate in this program. Forms may also be obtained from the librarian. Parents will be charged on their monthly bill.

The library plays an important part in helping children of all ages develop a love of reading which is essential for the building of other necessary skills. Please encourage your child to read!