Colorado Academy librarians frequently discuss the following questions with students, teachers, parents, and visitors.
How many books are in each of the two Colorado Academy campus libraries?
The Lower School Library holds a total of 17,995 print and audio books. Raether Library, serving Middle and Upper School students, holds 4,803 books. These numbers do not reflect the numerous databases that CA subscribes to, nor our connection to Denver Public Library and the multitude of resources we are able to access through their online library.
Have the librarians read every book in the library?
Between the five Library Department Team members, we have read a very large percentage of the books in our library, but not all of them. However, at least one of us (and usually two of us) has read reviews, summaries, descriptions, and recommendations of every single book.
Where do all these books come from?
Developing CA’s two library collections is a multi-faceted process that involves the entire Library Team and the community we serve. We aim to enrich the curriculum and meet the needs of our community’s individual interests. We look for materials that are age-appropriate and organize our collections in ways that allow all different age groups and developmental levels to navigate the collection safely.
Selecting books for our two campus libraries is a collective effort. CA’s librarians read book reviews in professional publications and many book blogs; we listen to podcasts and interviews; we learn about trends in the publishing industry and school curricula through workshops, conferences, and lots of professional reading. The librarians evaluate the school’s curriculum, not just where it is right now, but also where it is headed. The librarians develop relationships with our students and faculty and regularly talk with them about their general interests and what they are reading and listening to. We also talk with students and faculty about what shows they are watching and what games they are playing. All of these factors, and more, help us build our rich library collections.
And then, how do books physically get here? We order them through our book seller, and the books arrive already cataloged and covered and ready for the shelf (minus some stamps and book tape). Watch Ms. Marzonie unpack a box of new books for Raether Library!
What’s your favorite book in the library?
Honestly, we just don’t have an answer to that question. It’s often the book that we are reading at the moment!
What happens if I lose a book?
This does happen from time to time. If you lose a book, your family will be asked to pay for a replacement copy for the library. If you find the lost book (which happens all the time!) then your family will be reimbursed the replacement fee.
Do you have a charger I can borrow?
No, we do not provide chargers.
“Being a librarian is so cool. Do you get to read all day?”
We wish we could read all day. Fortunately, though, we have wonderful students and teachers to work with! During the school day, we are mostly busy teaching, reading aloud to students, hosting programs and events, planning future programs and events, developing curriculum, collaborating with teachers, ordering books, supervising recess, going to meetings, and… eating lunch! 🙂
Does Mr. Wiggle like his book? (IYKYK—if you know, you know)
YES! He loves it!
