Expectations
Each student is expected to use our ROAR (Responsibility, Ownership, Attitude and Respect) behaviors when in the library. Students that are not using these behaviors a reminder will be given, and second infractions will result in a loss of recess time. Additional infractions will be handled will additional loss of recess and homeroom teachers or parents will be notified. Below are examples of the ROAR behaviors expected in the library.
Responsibility
Returning library books on time Taking proper care of library books Paying for or replacing lost/damaged library books Using shelf markers appropriately and returning them after class |
Ownership
Coming to library class on time Getting seated quietly and quickly Standing in line quietly at the end of class |
Attitude
Saying nice things to other students and adults Using appropriate voice level and tone and body language (helpful reminder: whining, yelling, and rolling eyes are never kind) Helping others, when possible and appropriate Cleaning up |
Respect
Following instructions Quietly listening, when appropriate (for example, when a story is being read aloud, instructions are being given, or it is another students' turn to speak) Raising your hand and waiting for your turn to speak |
Policies and Questions
What happens if I forget to return my library book?
If a student forgets their book on their day, there is no punishment. Students will participate in all class activities except for book exchange. While their classmates exchange books they will be able to choose from a selection of books to read or browse while they wait. They are not permitted to check out another book until they return the one that they have. I will not send home a note with the child until it has been overdue for several class periods. The student will be reminded of the book that needs returned, and they are welcome to return it the following day (they do not have to wait until their next class period) or as soon as possible with the permission of their teacher.
What happens if I damage my library book?
I understand that even with the most responsible students, accidents can happen. At the beginning of the year we go over book care rules and the students participate in activities to review the proper care of their books. When accidents do happen, it is important that the student takes responsibility for the damage and brings the book in and tells me what happened.
If it is possible, I will fix the book. However, if the book is damaged significantly and I cannot repair it and it is no longer useable by other students, the student will be responsible for paying for a new copy of the book. Please understand that due to the extra strong binding that library books require, most books cost around $15-$20. I truly do not want any student or family to have to pay for these books, but we cannot maintain our collection without replacing them. As a family, it would be a good idea to review these book strategies to help take the best care of your books:
1. Keep you book away from young siblings and animals
2. Keep your book dry (don't put them in your backpack with your water bottle)
3. Keep them somewhere easy to find (backpack, bookshelf, etc.)
Please DON'T try to fix your book at home! There are special tapes and glues that we can use to fix it more quickly and effectively to ensure it will last.
What happens if I lose my library book?
Unfortunately, if a book is truly lost, the student will need to pay to replace the book. They will have plenty of time to try to find it, but while they are waiting they will miss out on the opportunity to borrow a different library book. As stated above, most cost around $15-$20. Please keep in mind that final report cards will be held until all fines/fee (included fees for lost or damaged library books) are paid.
My child borrowed a book that I do not believe is right for him/her. What should I do?
Because our school library is used for children from ages 4-12, there is bound to come a time when a student borrows a book that may not be the best fit for him or her. I will try to guide your child toward books that are a good fit for content and reading level, but I also allow the students to choose books based on their interests as they are more likely to read and enjoy them. We do complete lessons in the library to help students understand what makes a book a good fit for them.
I strongly encourage each family to discuss with their children why their children chose to borrow specific books if they think they are not a good fit. Explain to your child why you felt that book was not the best choice. Conversations like these will help your child when choosing their next library book. If you have further concerns, please feel free to contact me.
If a student forgets their book on their day, there is no punishment. Students will participate in all class activities except for book exchange. While their classmates exchange books they will be able to choose from a selection of books to read or browse while they wait. They are not permitted to check out another book until they return the one that they have. I will not send home a note with the child until it has been overdue for several class periods. The student will be reminded of the book that needs returned, and they are welcome to return it the following day (they do not have to wait until their next class period) or as soon as possible with the permission of their teacher.
What happens if I damage my library book?
I understand that even with the most responsible students, accidents can happen. At the beginning of the year we go over book care rules and the students participate in activities to review the proper care of their books. When accidents do happen, it is important that the student takes responsibility for the damage and brings the book in and tells me what happened.
If it is possible, I will fix the book. However, if the book is damaged significantly and I cannot repair it and it is no longer useable by other students, the student will be responsible for paying for a new copy of the book. Please understand that due to the extra strong binding that library books require, most books cost around $15-$20. I truly do not want any student or family to have to pay for these books, but we cannot maintain our collection without replacing them. As a family, it would be a good idea to review these book strategies to help take the best care of your books:
1. Keep you book away from young siblings and animals
2. Keep your book dry (don't put them in your backpack with your water bottle)
3. Keep them somewhere easy to find (backpack, bookshelf, etc.)
Please DON'T try to fix your book at home! There are special tapes and glues that we can use to fix it more quickly and effectively to ensure it will last.
What happens if I lose my library book?
Unfortunately, if a book is truly lost, the student will need to pay to replace the book. They will have plenty of time to try to find it, but while they are waiting they will miss out on the opportunity to borrow a different library book. As stated above, most cost around $15-$20. Please keep in mind that final report cards will be held until all fines/fee (included fees for lost or damaged library books) are paid.
My child borrowed a book that I do not believe is right for him/her. What should I do?
Because our school library is used for children from ages 4-12, there is bound to come a time when a student borrows a book that may not be the best fit for him or her. I will try to guide your child toward books that are a good fit for content and reading level, but I also allow the students to choose books based on their interests as they are more likely to read and enjoy them. We do complete lessons in the library to help students understand what makes a book a good fit for them.
I strongly encourage each family to discuss with their children why their children chose to borrow specific books if they think they are not a good fit. Explain to your child why you felt that book was not the best choice. Conversations like these will help your child when choosing their next library book. If you have further concerns, please feel free to contact me.