About the Library

The library is a buzzing and thriving place to be and is guaranteed to be very busy throughout the whole school day. 

Reading is such an important part of every child’s day and our library is there to provide an excellent source of books to support our students with their studies and to enjoy reading.

During breaks and lunch times you will find students browsing and reading books, doing homework, working on computers, working independently or in groups or enjoying some of the many library clubs available.

Library Dedication

The Howard Library is dedicated to Mr Roy Howard (1922-2011), the first headteacher of Hugh Christie School.  He was a well-respected local school leader and made a huge contribution to the lives of thousands of young people in this area.

When are we open?

We are open throughout the day Monday to Thursday from 9.30 am - 2.45 pm.

Introducing the Library Team!

The Howard library is managed by Mrs Wood and supported by an enthusiastic team of student librarians.

The student librarians are an invaluable part of the library.  They help out with issuing and returning books, collecting overdues, issuing birthday books, finding resources for homework or suggesting a good book to read as well as running the lunchtime library clubs.

I’m interested in becoming a student librarian, what do I do?

As there is always more demand than places available, you will need to fill in an application form and attend an interview.  If successful, you will spend a trial period with us to make sure it’s right for you!  Two sessions a week is all we expect you to commit to.

Borrowing

All students can borrow up to 3 books for a period of 3 weeks.

All books must be signed in and out by the Librarian on duty.  If no one is available your book can be placed in the returns box just inside the entrance to the library. 

If you have not finished reading your book you can ask the Librarian to renew it and get it re-stamped.

What we have?

We have over 8000 fiction and non-fiction books, book posters, careers leaflets and prospectuses as well as 3-networked computers.

Our Library catalogue is available on the Homepage of the Hugh Christie website which you can search at any time. You can also view student book reviews, book of the week and our new reads.

You can also have your own login to view your current and past loans, complete a book review or reserve a book.

We are happy for you to suggest any books that we should stock in the library.  Please give your suggestions to the Librarian on duty.

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Finding a Book

Our non-fiction books are ordered by the Dewey decimal number covered by a clear coloured label.  Further details are shown on the signs above the bookcases.

000 – 099                    General, reference                  White

100 – 199                    Philosophy, psychology            White

200 – 299                    Religion                                  Light Blue

300 – 399                    Society, community                 Red

400 – 499                    Languages                              Purple

500 – 599                    Science                                   Lilac

600 – 699                    Technology                             Grey

700 – 799                    Arts, music, sport                    Green

800 – 899                    Literature                                Yellow

900 – 999                    Geography                              Dark Blue

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Our fiction books are ordered alphabetically by author’s surname into the following genres.

• Adventure
• Animals
• Biography
• Careers
• Fairytales
• Fantasy
• Historical Fiction
• Horror
• Humour
• Mystery
• Science Fiction
• Short Stories
• Sixth Form Reading Scheme
• Young Adult

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The Reading Scheme books are organised by Accelerated Reader level.