Libraries
The GDS Library program teaches students to think critically, clearly, and creatively about all forms of information, and to use that information effectively, ethically, and responsibly.
Our collections and teaching foster strength of character, concern for others, and self-awareness by engaging students in actively exploring the relationship of their own identities with those reflected—and not reflected—in the literature and media they encounter. We recognize that new and challenging ideas can emerge from experiences with books and information, and believe that providing unfettered access for choices of material allows all students to self-advocate, take risks, and ultimately become lifelong readers.
LMS Library
Lower/Middle School Librarians help Pre-K through 8th grade students discover a love for reading and become efficient, capable handlers of information.
Highlights:
- Serves PK - 8th Grade students
- Open to students 7:45 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., including before school and recess times.
- Weekly classes in PK-6th grades, 7th and 8th through teacher collaboration
- Regular celebrations of reading:
- Hopper Awards
- Winter Reading Challenge
- Summer Reading Photo Challenge
High School Library
The High School Library serves as a central gathering, working, reading, book-borrowing, and studying space for the 9th through 12th grade community.
Highlights:
- GDS LibGuides (Subject Guides to online library resources)
- Open to students 6:00 a.m. - 8:45 p.m. weekdays, with self-checkout
- Focus on scholarly information seeking and use; 135+ classroom lessons taught per year
- Regular celebrations of reading:
- Book Costumes for Halloween
- Gentrified Book Carts before each Break
- Blind Date with a Book (Valentine’s Day)
- Student clubs:
- The Literacy Cohort (anti-Censorship group)
- The Picture Book Club (reading/discussing picture books)
- Banned Books Reading Club
Summer Reading
At GDS, we believe students should choose their own free reading whenever it’s possible. We highly recommend browsing in, borrowing from, and participating in programs at your local public libraries during summer months when the school libraries are closed.