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St. Joan of Arc School Library
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.
Our SJOA School Library collection includes thousands of carefully curated fiction and nonfiction books! Our students enjoy additional benefits, such as
• Thoughtful and intentional collection development and programming demonstrating a dedication to both diversity and representation. Our students are able to “see” themselves and other cultures in the books they read.
• During the school day, we use an “open door” model, creating best practice flexible access for students to browse and check out books.
• Millie, our therapy dog, is a great way for our students to receive empathy in a stress-free environment. Millie improves moods, mental health, and our school climate... students call her the “heart of our school.”
• We are members of the Indianapolis Public Library Shared System. Every student in grades K - 8 has a library card and access to books, e-books, audiobooks, online resources, and all media from the Indianapolis Public Library.
• SJOA has a rich history of creating strong readers. We participate in the Renaissance Accelerated Reading Program and students love being in the Million Words Read Club!
• Our yearly Follett Book Fair creates schoolwide excitement because students choose the books they want to see in our library and participate in reaching family reading goals.
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7 Habits at work in the Library
#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.
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