Dear Burrell Families,
Welcome to the Burrell School Library.
The library is a warm and inviting place full of books, magazines,
computers, reference materials, and other exciting resources used by
students and staff alike. The children come into the library once every six-
day cycle as a group for story time and instruction in library skills. They
also get to take out books at this time, which is a very popular activity!
It's fun to watch the students become familiar with our collection, finding
old favorites and exploring new choices, while debating the merits of
various books with their classmates. The process of learning how to use a
library, and selecting and returning books in a timely manner is a rewarding
and valuable experience. Much of what we do in the library is to help
instill a love of books and reading in the children.
Book Selection:
Enjoy your child's selection of books. If your child is one of our younger
students, please make time to read with him/her. If your child chooses
a "Grow Into" book (usually non-fiction), enjoy the pictures and captions
together. This is an excellent opportunity to spark a child's interest,
particularly in the sciences. And if your child is reading chapter books,
ask about plot and characters. Your interest in what book is chosen is very
helpful.
Checking out books:
Kindergarten students check out 1 book. This book will either be an
Everybody (juvenile fiction) book or a non-fiction book to read
with an adult, on a subject they are interested in learning about.
First and second graders check out 2 books. At least 1 book will be an
everybody (juvenile fiction) book. The second book choice can be either a
non-fiction book or a chapter book to read alone or with an adult's
assistance.
Third and fourth graders check out 2 books. At this level the children read a
lot of chapter books, such as popular series books or the cherished
Illustrated Classics. Non-fiction books are also chosen quite often
including Biographies. Third and fourth graders also still enjoy checking
out the Everybody (juvenile fiction) books.
Returning Books:
All library books are due back on the same number day of
the next cycle. Each child must bring back the "old" books before
choosing "new" ones. For your convenience we stamp the due date on the card
pocket inside the book. Please help your child to return his/her books each
week, as not being able to trade for new books diminishes your child's
library experience. If a book is lost a parent may send a note to school on
the child's scheduled library day saying that an adult is aware that a
library book is missing. After a note is received the child may continue to
check out books while he/she is looking for the missing book. "Lost" books
often turn up within a few weeks. If the book is not found by the end of the
school year it is then the parents responsibility to remit payment for the
lost book.
Thanks for your help and cooperation. I so enjoy seeing your children's
enthusiasm for books and reading!
Mrs. St. Germain
Burrell School Library
