Elementary
The Runnels Elementary Library has over 19,000 volumes and the collection continues to broaden. In the summer of 2007, the library underwent an expansion project during which a Reference Room was dedicated to the memory of Virginia H. Runnels, a devoted educator and mother of Headmaster Dr. Kelly Runnels. The new section is home to fiction and reference books. Currently the library has several student computers, which primarily are used for the Accelerated Reader Program (click here to look up books that have coordinating tests, BOOKFINDER). To date, students using the Elementary Library have access to over 150,000 Accelerated Reader tests. The skills assessment tools that are available through this program are helpful to teachers and students alike, challenging students through tests specific to books they have read, and providing teachers with important reading level and comprehension information. Traditionally, 100 percent of the students in grades 1-6 participate in the Accelerated Reader Program.
In 2002, the school dedicated a portion of the Elementary Library in memory of former teacher and school librarian, Mrs. Gladys Marsh. A special collection about animals is on the shelves of our library, donated by Mrs. Marsh’s students, in honor of her retirement in 1988. A plaque, which hangs on the "archway" in the library, identifies the area where the collection resides as the "Gladys Marsh Reading Room." Mrs. Marsh, who passed away in August 2002, will always live on in our warm memories of her.
The Elementary Library houses a diverse collection which includes fiction, non-fiction, picture books, chapter books, and reference books. Children also have access to a large collection of books about the holidays and religions of many cultures, books reinforcing the Runnels School’s commitment to cultural diversity and awareness.
Talking about books with students and helping them to choose a level appropriate book specific to their needs and interests is the Elementary Librarian's favorite pastime!
Jr.High/High School
Located on the first floor of Novak Hall is the Andy Mack Memorial Library, named in memory of a beloved Runnels student who died in a car accident in 1990. The Andy Mack library offers a comfortable “coffee house style” atmosphere where junior and senior high students have access to a diverse collection of literature for reading and research. In addition, students have access to dedicated computer resource stations for classwork and for participation in the school wide Accelerated Reader Program.
The High School Librarians implement various contests and activities to ensure that students enjoy a full library experience. For example, ninth through twelfth graders will participate in the Louisiana Teen Reader's Choice Awards. Students will, with the help of the Secretary of State's Voter Outreach Division, be able to cast their votes using official voting machines. Students are also eligible to participate in surveys, scavenger hunts and various drawings as incentives to read more. It is the goal of the high school librarians to provide a research base that enhances the academic pursuits of the student body, while building upon the deep love of reading nurtured in the Elementary School Library.
