The Library

Welcome to the Library Resource Centre

The library is opened from 8.20am until 4.15pm (extended to 4.30pm on Tuesday and Thursday) and is also accessible at break (Monday to Thursday) and all three lunches (12.10 -1.40pm).

The School Library aims to provide a welcoming supportive environment where the needs of every pupil are recognised and met and where effective learning can take place. It is divided into a main book stock and reading area, a computer area and a classroom area. The service provided by the library resource centre should enable pupils to investigate, handle, communicate and evaluate information. The library resource centre has a significant role to play in raising attainment within the school and to assist and support all learning and teaching in order to train our pupils to become independent learners.

The Library is run by a chartered Librarian (Miss Lees) who liaises closely with departments over resource needs and curriculum developments. Our librarian provides a cross curricular perspective, specialised knowledge of resources and is strong promoter of literacy and reading. The librarian runs a book review blog - stmargaretsacademy.blogspot.com - where pupils take an active role in being the literacy critics!

Miss Lees assists and guides the pupils in building effective research skills and advises on appropriate recreational reading. Classes often use the library for project work during school hours. In order to promote the benefits of personal reading S1 and S2 pupils have timetabled library periods as part of their English studies. S1 pupils also participate in Level 1 Basic Library Skills. The library also runs a Homework Club on Tuesday and Thursday to give pupils the opportunity to do individual research and homework. Please inform Miss Lees if you wish to attend.

One section of the library is dedicated to careers material which provides students with access to a wide range of information about career opportunities, further and higher education, UCAS, job vacancies, working and studying abroad. The school's Careers Adviser visits the library every Tuesday, where he holds interviews to deal with any enquiries. To make an appointment please contact Mrs Ballantyne in the Senior Office.

There are five computers available in the library, which are linked into the school network allowing pupils access to all aspects of IT. These computers can be booked at break or lunch for school work, please enquire at the library's desk.