Policies/Procedures

This page will help you understand some of the policies and procedures in the library including entering, following the rules, selecting a book, checkout, and returning library books.

Entering the Library
We enter the library on a ZERO voice level and line up between the paw prints on the floor. It is important to be considerate of others who are using the library. The library is the "hub" of the school, and we want to make sure everyone enjoys using it.

Our Rules Spell "LIBRARY"
Every day a new student leads the class in reviewing the rules. We even have fun movements for each one.


Story Time
Image Source
Reading aloud stories is one of our favorite activities in the library. Not only do the stories take students to new places and let them meet new characters, it improves students’ vocabulary, lays the foundation for fluency, and launches fun hands-on activities. During story time, Lil’ Cats keep their hands to themselves and listen with their ears and eyes. Students are respectful of others by remaining quiet and still. If students move around, touch others, or talk, they might miss the best parts of the story. By following story time rules, students will enjoy the funny, spooky, or exciting stories that Mr. Northern has chosen to read. 

The Shelf Elf Teaches Us How to Use the Library 

Shelf Markers
The Shelf Elf teaches us to, “Use a shelf marker, you can't go wrong, put books back where they belong”. A shelf marker helps students put books back in their proper places if they decide they do not want to check it out after pulling it off the shelf. Shelf markers help keep books in their correct location, so that others can easily locate it when they need to. Always have a shelf marker in your hand when you are looking for a library book and use it correctly.

Book Care
At SES we take pride in all of our library books. Please watch the video to learn how we care for books so that everyone can enjoy them!

Student Checkout Policy
  • 1st Grade may check out 1 book at a time.
  • 2nd and 3rd Grades may check out 1 book between the beginning of school and winter break. Depending upon how well the groups follow the rules for returning and taking care of their library books, students may have the opportunity to begin checking out 2 books after winter break. 
  • Check-out period is 14 days. Before that time, students will need to return or renew their item.
  • Before that time, students will need to return or renew their item. It is encouraged that students finish their book(s) and take an AR Quiz before returning the item to the library.
  • Any damaged or lost book must be replaced by the student by whom it was checked out to last. 
  • Each lost or damaged book costs $10 to replace.
  • Students will not be allowed to check out any additional library books until all overdue notices are cleared.

Choosing Just Right Books
When choosing a book, students are encouraged to remember the 5 Finger Rule. This rule helps students select a just right book. A just right book is a book the student finds interesting and can confidently read and understand.

Collection Develop Policy
The SES Library Media Center strives to create and maintain a collection of books that meets students’ interests, reading abilities, and the needs of the curriculum. Please access our Collection Development Policy for more details.