The school has a well stocked library which is used by the girls either for private study or reading for pleasure. It has a comprehensive non fiction selection which supports the curriculum and an up to date fiction section which is well used by girls from all years. As well as books, the library has magazines and periodicals, including foreign language magazines, daily newspapers and a multimedia section.
In addition, the library has five computer stations and its own printer. There is a full time Librarian who is in school between 7.45am and 5.00pm and a team of U6 volunteers who are able to issue books and give advice to the younger pupils. The library can be used by the girls at any time including evenings and weekends.
At the end of the Summer term pupils from the Prep School come to the library for a taster session and in September all new entrants receive library induction lessons where they are taught how to use the library and how to access information from a variety of sources. They then receive weekly library lessons on the skills needed for independent learning. These basic skills are reinforced throughout their time at Casterton and teachers bring classes into the library for reading lessons and research. Pupils from Year 6 come to the library once a week at lunchtime to borrow books.
The library is proactive in promoting independent learning and reading for pleasure and the girls are encouraged to take part in a range of library events throughout the year. These include Lit Fest, The Kids’ Lit Quiz, World Book Day, Carnegie Shadowing and, for the first time this year, The Times Spelling Bee. The library also offers lunchtime and after school activities and plays an important part in providing resources and research advice to 6th formers who are taking the EPQ (Extended project Qualification).
Casterton Library provides a dedicated area with a variety of resources which enable all staff and pupils to work effectively whether individually or in a class. Above all it provides a welcoming environment which encourages and promotes independent learning and a life long love of reading.
