St James’ is home to a vibrant library that serves as a cornerstone for academic enrichment and literary exploration. The library offers a plethora of services and resources tailored to meet the diverse needs of our more than 1100 students in Kindergarten to Year 12.
With a collection exceeding 8000 books, spanning various genres and academic levels, the Library is a hub for learning, collaboration, and leisure. We recently had the opportunity to speak with our passionate Librarian Mrs Stone, who shed light on the library’s initiatives, collaborations, and its integral role in shaping students’ academic journeys.
“Our library is not merely a repository of books; it is a vibrant hub of learning and discovery, dedicated to nurturing a lifelong love for reading and empowering students to reach their full potential,” Mrs Stone says.
The library actively supports students’ academic goals by aligning its resources with the school curriculum. From kindergarten reading programs to ATAR exam preparation guides, the selection is meticulously curated to reinforce and enrich classroom learning. Close collaboration with teaching staff ensures the acquisition of resources that complement the curriculum.
In addition to academic support, the library provides a range of recreational activities. On Tuesdays and Thursdays during lunchtimes, students can access games as part of these initiatives. The library’s layout is designed with designated zones for silent study, collaborative work, and cosy reading corners, encouraging diverse learning styles.
“Amidst the bustling pace of student life, the library stands as a haven for tranquility and exploration. It provides students with a space to study, unwind, and delve into new topics of interest at their own pace,” Mrs Stone says.
The library closely monitors trends and ensures the availability of popular titles to engage students. To cater to diverse interests, the library maintains a suggestion box for book recommendations. Technological advancements have not been overlooked, as the library features an advanced online management system and student self-circulation access, allowing for efficient borrowing processes.
Another key focus is the importance of partnerships and collaborations with teachers, parents, and community programs such as The Better Beginnings program, a Western Australian family literacy program that connects families with books through free reading packs. These collaborations foster a collaborative learning environment, ensuring that the library remains an integral part of the overall school experience.
“Ultimately, the success of our library is evident in the smiles of students and staff alike. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming and supportive environment where every individual feels valued and empowered,” Mrs Stone adds.
Mrs Stone says the role as Librarian at St James’ was an obvious choice for her.
“Having witnessed the transformative power of reading firsthand while working in Pre-Primary as an Education Assistant, I knew I wanted to extend my experiences outside the classroom and with a wider age range of students. Working in the Library is an absolute delight. I am deeply passionate about cultivating literacy skills for all students and the library is the perfect facilitator of this.”
