From the Head of Library and Information Services

College Library – Where learning, community and connection come together

I feel incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to work in such a community-minded school. Coming to work and seeing the students' smiling faces has been wonderful. Not only are the students welcoming, but they also love their library. Every morning and lunchtime, the library is packed, every space in the library is filled with activity, whether it is an academic collaboration, a noisy game of chess or students quietly chilling in the pit with their favourite book - there is not one space in the library that isn’t getting used. Getting to know the students has been a joy; it also helps us, as library staff, understand how the library can best support them on their academic journey. 

This term, we have introduced some lunchtime activities such as Lego Club and Makerspace, which have been well received by the students. Lego Club is a huge hit with the students, and it has been fantastic watching them work as a team to build their kits, which are now displayed in the library. Makerspace has been a lot of fun this term and very popular with the younger students. Hopefully, next term, when we start using the 3D printer, we will see some of the older students joining in.

Recently, we participated in National Simultaneous Storytime, an annual event held by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) to promote reading and showcase Australian authors and illustrators. Every year, a picture book is read simultaneously in libraries and schools across Australia, promoting the value of reading and literacy. This year, over 2.2 million people gathered at the same time to read Luna Roo: the Kangaroo Baller. Here at St Patrick’s College, our Library became the stage for a World Cup performance of ball dribbling and animated readings from our College Principal Mrs Amber Hauff, and Dean of Students Mr Sean Toovey. Our Year 5 and 6 classes, along with some of our Senior students, enjoyed the talents of our guest readers and the shared reading experience. 

Reading for enjoyment is a key focus for our College this year as we continue to build a strong reading culture. Recent research indicates a decline in reading for pleasure across Australia, particularly among teenage boys. Experts emphasise that fostering a love of reading not only strengthens literacy but also enhances mental wellbeing and supports improved academic outcomes. Additionally, reading offers important social benefits, helping students feel more connected to their school community.

This has been evident during our Year 7 and 8 Library sessions this term, where students have confidently shared their reading through Book Talks with their peers. It has been especially encouraging to see the number of boys volunteering to present. Book Talks are short, informal presentations in which students introduce and reflect on a book they have read. Hearing a peer's recommendation often motivates other students, particularly reluctant readers, to borrow and engage with the same text.

As part of the Year 7 HASS Deep Time and Ancient Egypt unit, the College was fortunate to borrow an Ancient Worlds Museum Box from the Queensland Museum. This provided students with a valuable hands-on learning experience, allowing them to explore primary and secondary sources firsthand.

The Year 5 and 6 students celebrated Queensland Day earlier this month and have been learning all about the state’s history, culture, and significance in their Library lessons. They investigated important events, symbols, and people who have shaped Queensland. Through reading, research, and discussion activities, students have been developing their understanding of Queensland’s heritage while strengthening their information literacy skills.

Lots of exciting events and programs will take place at the Library next term, including a visit from author Tristan Bancks and Book Week. We look forward to another very busy term.