The Middle/Upper School Library makes a wide range of information available in support of the curriculum, encourages reading and fosters a deep respect for acquiring knowledge as a basis for understanding.  Our collection consists of over 25,000 items: books, ebooks, tapes, DVDs, and subscription databases.  We are a member of AccessPA, Pennsylvania’s interlibrary loan system, which allows our patrons to borrow materials from public libraries, college and university libraries, public and independent schools. This, along with the internet, which is accessible on the school-wide computer network, facilitates boundless investigation and research. Materials in our library are also accessible from home for GA families and faculty.

 

In conjunction with the academic departments of Middle and Upper School, the library staff provides instruction on the appropriate use of the materials available.  With the superabundance of  knowledge that now confronts the 21st century learner, library skills have become ever more crucial.  We teach students to discriminate when fact finding, to ask essential questions, and to draw valid conclusions as they analyze and synthesize what they have learned.  Students are taught proper bibliographic citation using the software program Noodletools. Bibliographies are shared electronically with the librarians, who then provide electronic feedback

Students come to the library not only to research and study, but also to reflect, relax and to read.  The large fresh water fish tank on our circulation desk has a calming affect on all who stop to watch, and there is a section of popular magazines when one needs a break.  The library is a quiet, yet stimulating place where everyone is always welcome.