Our Library
"Keep reading. It’s one of the most marvellous adventures anyone can have." Lloyd Alexander.
The library is a welcoming, busy, and vibrant part of the school, well-equipped with thousands of books and other resources to assist students in both their curriculum studies and reading for pleasure. The stock of both fiction and non-fiction is regularly updated to cater to all users, from easy reads to classics, and subject departments are regularly invited to submit their requirements.
Who staffs the library?
Mr. McInally is the librarian and appoints a team of student librarians and helpers from various year groups.
When is the library open?
Monday – Friday from 8.10 am (for homework club) and until 4.30 pm.
How many books can be borrowed?
2 books for 3 weeks, renewable up to 3 times.
Overdue/damaged/lost books:
Students failing to return items will not be allowed to borrow any more until they are returned or paid for. Similarly, a charge of £2.00 will be incurred for any damaged or lost items.
Library catalogue:
Students can search for items, reserve, and renew via the Libresoft library catalogue. They will need an allocated number and password.
What are the library rules?
There is no food or drink permitted.
Students should respect other library users and behave in accordance with the school’s behaviour and expectations. Anyone failing to follow this can and will have temporary bans enforced.
Activities and Clubs in the library:
In Years 7, 8 and 9 there are fortnightly library lessons for 30 minutes, which are part of English lessons. During this time, students will be expected to take out a book of their choice and complete some silent reading.
‘The Lode Readers’ after school on Wednesdays, is a dedicated book club where students in years 7, 8 and 9 can come along and share some of the best new books in children’s literature. Featured authors have included Lisa Thompson, and the current Waterstones children’s laureate, Frank Cottrill Boyce. Participants are encouraged to share their views on the books and submit reviews to the library catalogue website.
Movie Mondays: Every fortnight on a Monday after school, there is a film club showing some of the best films around, including old favourites, alongside new and unfamiliar releases. Again, students are asked to share their thoughts and submit reviews via the ‘Into Film’ website.
Alongside these regular activities, the library hosts regular special events, talks and author visits, book fairs and ‘World Book Day’ activities. Have a look at our various social media accounts and platforms for details as these happen.
For any enquiries regarding the library or facilities, please contact bmcinally@lodeheath.org.uk.