Library

Why we value the power of reading

Reading is closely linked to academic success. Research shows students who read for pleasure have 26% more vocabulary and achieve better outcomes in all subjects, including 10% improvement in Maths.
Reading helps to increase empathy. Through reading, you learn how characters think and feel which helps you in real life relationships.
Reading helps you develop your confidence and improves self-esteem. Studies reveal that reading frequently has a positive impact on mental health.
Reading fosters understanding of complex issues. Life is sometimes difficult and sad for people here and around the world. The safe world of a book helps you understand situations when things are confusing, terrifying, distressing, complicated or challenging.
Reading is enjoyable. When you feel confident about your reading, getting stuck in a book eases daily anxieties. It takes you away to other places, people, and times. It makes you laugh, and cry and it helps you to relax.

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Get in touch

Please email Ms Watkins (JWatkins@charternorthdulwich.org.uk) for any library queries.

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The Charter School Library is centrally located off the atrium, and we stock over 8,500 books including the latest book releases, monthly magazines, the ever-popular graphic novels, manga comics and LGBTQ-themed novels.

We have a health and mental well-being section and a careers library. We run a weekly manga book club, breakfast reading club, after school Homework Club, Chess club and throughout the year host various authors and storytellers. Previous authors visits include Alex Wheatle, Ele Fountain and Holly Bourne.

All students are automatically members of the school library, and they can remotely access the catalogue using the Reading Cloud website found on RMUnify. Students can browse the catalogue and reserve and renew books online or in person. Books can be borrowed for three weeks at a time and can be returned to the information desk at any time in the school day. If a student has an overdue book, email reminders will be sent.

We strongly encourage students to be in charge of their account and take responsibility for returning their books on time.

In addition to bi-weekly library lessons for Year 7 and 8, each Year Group has a designated lunchtime slot to use for reading or using the computers for homework or research. Students also have unlimited access at breaktimes.
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KS3 students are welcome to apply to become a member of the library team. This is a fun and educational position that teaches teamwork, organization and responsibility and counts as part of either the skills or volunteering part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
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The library also has a designated 6th Form area with an extensive stock of books to support students in their wider academic reading. Our EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) students are supported with access to online journals and periodicals and there is a wide selection of modern and contemporary books for students to choose from.

Y7 and 8 reading list 2021-2022

Y9-11 reading list 2021-2022

Library

We recognise that reading and having access to a library is an essential element in improving attainment and enhancing well-being.

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Explore the collection

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