The SJOA library is a "must-see" for visitors and newcomers alike. Not only are circulation statistics staggering, they are a source of great pride. Parents and visitors regularly comment on the "cozy and warm" feel of the library. Our mature, responsible and articulate bookworms speak confidently about our wonderful library program.

• Flexible access for students in all grades
  • "Our librarians bring excitement to reading and the library. Thanks to them, our students check books out at a pace unsurpassed by any other school." - Estelle Britner, Junior High Social Studies teacher at SJOA
• Members of the IndyPL Shared System
  • "Our school librarian and the Shared System have been, perhaps, the single biggest influence on my children's learning at St. Joan of Arc." - Parent of a 4th and 7th grader 
• Diversity and representation through thoughtful and intentional collection development and programming
  • " Our library program at SJOA is an integral part of our student success and overall uniqueness as a school...(Our school librarians) are passionate advocates for diversity and inclusion, and they understands how to meet the interests and needs of individual students, not just majority groups." - Alex DeCoursey, the Spanish teacher at SJOA
• Supports our Accelerated Reading Program
• Million Words Read Club
• Literacy and Media Club (Middle school enrichment)
  • "Reading is one of my favorite things to do and the library at school is my favorite place at school." - Sam Allee, SJOA Junior High Student
• Follett Book Fair
• Birthday Books

#1 Be proactive - Students are in charge of their library choices. They take time when selecting books and work with our librarians, Mrs. Cindy Wallander and Mrs. Aly Schroeder, to find a "just right" book. With this sense of ownership, students become invested in their reading goals. Being proactive, rather than reactive, is the way to achieve these goals while also enjoying the process because students are choosing books that excite them.

#2 Begin with the end in mind - AR goals are set for each student quarterly.  Students create their own plan through measured daily practices. When they finish a book, they immediately begin reading a new one. Many students proactively ask for help mapping out a course of action. Flexible access allows us to keep books in the hands of our proactive readers and allows struggling readers to seek help in the library when they need to adjust their plan.

#3 - Put first things first - Students choose AR books before selecting bonus books each visit. Focus first on our goals and then let curiosity be the guide!

#4 Think win-win - The foundation of every library is the power of sharing resources. Students learn to check out the right amount of books: enough to keep them busy, while remembering that other patrons deserve access to the same materials. A full-time library program with flexible access allows the librarians to provide support for students and faculty. In their spare time, Mrs. Wallander and Mrs. Schroeder assist students to "find their rhythm" by determining if students read so fast they need to visit three times in a week OR proposing they simply need to check three books out at a time. It's different for every reader, and our librarians learn what works best for every student! 

#5 - Seek first to understand, then to be understood - Books broaden horizons by providing windows, doors, and mirrors to readers. Children employ empathy every time they open a book.

#6 Synergize - The entire educational team is positively impacted by a library such as ours! From book delivering and  book requests to recommended reading, all patrons are supported! 

#7 Sharpen the saw - Mrs. Wallander and Mrs. Schroeder take time to have conversations with individual students about the things that matter most to them. They help students find bonus books they are excited to read for pleasure and encourages staff to read for fun as well. Part of a librarian's job description is to build and nurture a culture of bibliophiles. Reading is a window to the world.  Reading is a foundational skill for learning, personal growth, and for life. 

#8 Find your voice - Students learn what they are passionate about and are supported to learn about issues that matter to them. They are encouraged to use critical thinking skills, form educated opinions, and use their voice to make the world a better place.