School Library

Sharnbrook library provides a vibrant hub for learning at the heart of the school. Pupils are encouraged to use the library throughout the day. At break and lunch times it’s a buzzing focal point for the school community, and a favourite place for many students. In the library pupils can study without interruption, use one of our 29 computers for research and homework, or relax with a good book. The library staff are always available to offer support – from book recommendations to help with homework, printing, and research skills.

With a collection of over 18,000 books, both fiction and non-fiction, plus a wide selection of periodicals for study and pleasure, there is something for everyone. Literary and modern classics sit alongside current popular fiction, graphic novels and Manga. If students need help choosing a book, they can ask the library staff or one of the student helpers, who will always have an enthusiastic recommendation! Book suggestions are always welcomed. Staff in the library work hard to ensure it is well stocked, with relevant, diverse, high-quality books and that we offer a safe and welcoming environment.

All students in years 7 and 8 take part in the Accelerated Reader programme and these lessons are delivered fortnightly in the library with their English teacher and library staff. Furthermore, the library staff work closely with the English department to embed a calendar of activities to promote literacy across the school. In the past, we have welcomed authors to share their expertise, run a variety of literacy workshops and held fun events for national celebrations like World Book Day. The library also works collaboratively with other teaching departments to develop students’ cross-curricular digital literacy skills.

The library is open Monday to Friday from 3:00pm-4:30pm throughout term time. Students are welcome to use the space if they are waiting to be collected or their club has been cancelled at short notice and they cannot get home. All students are required to sign in and out at the desk on each day that they attend, as registers are taken. A member of the library staff is always available to assist students with any homework and to give recommendations on books to read. Please note, after school the library is a welcoming working environment for those who need it, but it is not a social space for students to simply meet up with their friends. The school’s policy on mobile phones still applies, except for communication with parents/carers regarding collection. Students using this facility should be reading or completing homework and may be asked to leave otherwise.

Librarians: Mrs Anni Berman (Mon) and Mrs Sarah Tomlins (Tues-Fri)

Email:  Aberman@sharnbrook.academy     stomlins@sharnbrook.academy

Library Assistant: Mrs Sharon Bailey   sbailey@sharnbrook.academy

Useful links

Books For Keeps – The Children’s Book Magazine Online Hundreds of reviews of new children’s books each year

BookTrust: Getting children reading   The UK’s largest reading charity, who reach millions of children every year with books, resources, and support to get every child reading, regularly and by choice

LoveReading4Kids UK– A great link for information on new books, recommendations and emphasising the importance of books in our modern world, where so much is now digital

National Literacy Trust | UK Literacy Charity  An independent charity working with schools and communities to give disadvantaged children the literacy skills to succeed in life

Reading Lists Please speak to a member of the library staff if you would like a book recommendation.