Library
Villa students are taught basic library and research skills and frequently use the library resources and computers to access the library catalog and the internet to complete assignments.
In addition to formal classes, the librarian or teacher reads to the students from a wide variety of literature. All of our students are encouraged to check out books regularly for leisure reading.
Students also use the library during study hall, extra-help and afternoon homework club. They frequently relax by browsing through the periodicals or looking at the new books on display.
Throughout the year, programs are offered to encourage leisure reading. During “Villa Reads Week” the school hosts a visiting author, and students participate in reading challenges and activities which include “Drop Everything and Read” and “Dress Up As Your Favorite Book Character”.
Villa Maria has a Library Plan, which is integrated with the curriculum. The library has over 7,000 volumes consisting of non-fiction, fiction, biography, reference, periodical and audio/visual materials that support the curriculum and interests of the students. The books are color coded, that is, each book contains a color strip that indicates the reading level.
As a supplement to the library, the school has “theme bins” that contain a variety of resources for specific topics in science and social studies. The library also has five computers and a printer. These computers can be used for research, to type reports or to check the library catalog.
The motto “There’s Something for Everyone” is displayed on the library bulletin board. Finding that special “something” and checking it out has become an easier task this year. The library implemented a new and updated catalog automation system, a customized system to manage the library’s collection of materials.
Students and teachers are still able to search for items by title, keyword, author or subject from any computer in the school. However, the patron is also able to tell whether an item is available for check-out or, if not, when that item is due back. The library system also includes a textbook component, which will track and record inventory.
An effective school library should be accessible to the total school community. Therefore, a shelf in the library is dedicated to parent resources, which include volumes about parenting and learning disabilities.
The library will soon have a link to the catalog on our website, This will allow parents, as well as teachers and students, to peruse our collection and reserve books from home.
There is also a well-stocked professional library with books and periodicals in the faculty room.