Library
The Library is a purpose-built space, home to over 11,000 resources divided between fiction and non-fiction with access to computers. It is a calm working room, on two floors, affording everyone the opportunity of quiet study or reading.
The Librarians work closely with the subject departments to keep the non-fiction stock up to date supporting study through every stage. Tracking student reading trends and publishers’ latest releases, we ensure our stock is modern and relevant, yet maintain a balance between classic texts and modern authors to provide a comprehensive reading experience.
The Library catalogue, Accessit, can be accessed remotely (https://uk.accessit.online/wst13/#!dashboard), from a laptop or a smartphone via the school website, meaning students are able to search and reserve books in advance, or add book reviews to the catalogue, helping others with their book choices.
An annual programme of events includes two author visits; one coinciding with World Book Day in March, and the other in the summer term. In the past we have had the pleasure of welcoming highly-respected authors such as Sufiya Ahmed, Sophia Bennett, Anne Cassidy, Laura Dockrill, Mary Hooper, Sally Nicholls, Malcolm Rose and Holly Smale, all of whom have proved highly successful with the girls.
In October we celebrate creative writing with National Poetry Day; this gives the girls the opportunity to submit and recite their poetry based on that year’s theme. Our ‘Catch Me Reading’ initiative enters those ‘caught’ reading into a termly prize draw. To provide a more inclusive reading experience, the first WHSG Book Award was launched in 2018 with a shortlist inspired by the Carnegie Book Award and the Essex Book Award. Its success has turned it into an annual event.
Parents are welcome to contact the Librarians if they have any questions concerning the Library and its resources.
