Stromness Academy
Library
AN INTRODUCTION
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The Library
The library is purpose built and centrally located within the school. It was opened in 1987 and is currently managed by a full-time chartered Librarian, Mrs Frances Sinclair, who has been in post since 1992.
It provides an important school wide resource for pupils and staff alike. It aims to support the curriculum fully by providing a wide and up-to-date range of resources from its own collection and from the Orkney Library that provides a support service.
Attractively designed on two levels, it holds approximately 7,000 book and non-book resources. Most of the stock is located in the Lower Library in four distinct sections - Reference, Non-fiction, Fiction and Senior Fiction. The Upper Library houses the Careers Information collection and is a study area for individual private study for 5th and 6th year pupils.
The library has a welcoming atmosphere that is conducive to study, research, leisure reading and computer use.
The library is used throughout the school day - before registration, class time, lunchtime and after school. Most departments will send pupils as necessary with them coming individually, in groups or as a whole class. The Librarian is usually on hand to help pupils or staff with research if appropriate.
1st and 2nd year pupils have timetabled library periods once a week when they can borrow books or sit and read quietly. 1st year, during their initial weeks, are taught Library and Information Skills by the Librarian that will help them to become independent library users. Other year groups / departments also use the library on a regular basis to support study and the curriculum.