Scotch College

Scotch College: Great Scot: Literacy a prime concern

Literacy a prime concern

Literacy is a prime concern of any library and certainly of the Scotch College Senior Library.

In this information and technological age, literacy has taken on a further dimension with a need for 'information literacy'. Information available to students is no longer confined to what is held within the library walls. Information is now global. It is no longer a question of 'Do you have any information on ...?'

The problem is how to find the right information quickly and easily, and then how to use it. The amount of information now available in print, electronic and online formats is staggering, almost overwhelming. Effective learners are not just those who are knowledgeable, but rather those able to find the information they need and use it well.

We must teach students the skills to enable them to cope with the deluge of data which increasingly confronts them. These information skills will prepare students to be independent learners and problem solvers.

Range of resources

Consequently, the Scotch College Senior Library provides a wide range of resources for students in a variety of formats, including print, CD ROM, online and electronic. The library network of computers provides students with access to the internet for individual research. Our extensive collection of CD ROMs, covering a wide range of subjects, is gradually being networked.

The library provides subscription-based online information services such as Ebscohost World Magazine Bank, a database of periodical literature. Together, the library and subject teachers are developing programmes to teach students not only the technical skills required to access these information sources but also skills for effective searching, skills in selecting, organizing, using and evaluating the information they find.

Reading for pleasure

While it is important that students achieve these competencies, the library programme also aims to develop general literacy and encourage students to read for pleasure.

Currently we are promoting the reading of fiction. A new graphic display promotes the genres of horror and fantasy, together with a horror competition. Recently we added to our collection of audio books, selecting titles popular with younger readers. These help reluctant readers (and others) to enjoy literature and use a technology students know well.

A professional development programme involving the library and English staff provided an opportunity for staff to familiarise themselves with recently published titles in adolescent literature. Novelist Archimede Fusillo will visit the school soon and talk to Year 10 students about the craft of writing and conduct writing workshops.

'Being able to read is a gift, but loving reading is a great gift'.