Library Schedule & Policies

Students in Grades 4-6 will be taking part in a new combined Library and Computer class called Media & Exploration. The Media class, which will be team-taught by the computer and library teacher, will give students the opportunity to develop technology and information literacy skills through project-based learning. The skills students will develop are a part of the computer and library standards given by the Diocese and our school’s STREAM initiative. Examples may include, but are not limited to:

• Match information needed with appropriate sources.

• Select sources independently to solve information and research problems.

• Compare information on the Internet to information available in other digital and print forms.

• Locate and record bibliographic information for the purpose of citing sources.

• Use search strategies for age-appropriate Web searches, library catalogs, or electronic databases.

• Collect and organize information using technology.

• Communicate independently with various audiences using different media formats.

Each week, students will have a 60-minute Media class as well as a 30-minute Exploration period where they can read, create using maker materials (origami, LEGOs, etc.), or play educational games. Exploration is a time when students, guided by their teachers, direct their own learning based upon their interests.

This class will replace the separate Computer and Library classes students once had. Students will still receive a Computer grade at the end of each quarter based on the work they do in Media class.

Check Out Policies

• Students in Kindergarten may check out 1 book each week with their library bag.
• Students in Grades 1 and 2 may check out up to 2 books each week with their school-issued library bag.
• Loaner bags may be given as needed, but must be returned. Library bags can be replaced for $1.00 (all fees are billed through FACTS).
• Students in Grades 3-8 may check out up to 3 books each week.
• Books used for school projects do not count toward a student's weekly limit.
• Playaway audiobooks may be checked out to students in Grades 4 through 8 provided the student has a permission slip on file in the library.  

OVERDUE BOOKS
The Saint Joseph School Library does not assess fines for overdue books.  However, we ask that students return their books on time each week.  Repeated failure to return books may result in a discipline notice.

LOST OR DAMAGED BOOKS
In the case that a library book is damaged but still in salvageable condition, a student will be charged a damage fee of up to $5.00.  For lost or irreparable books, a student will be charged for the replacement value of the book.  All fees are billed through the FACTS system.

Questions should be directed to Mrs. Heather Brown at h.brown@sjschoolva.org.