The school library is named after Charles Plumptre Johnson, Chairman of Governors 1926-38 and generous benefactor of the school. Originally built in 1932 as an assembly and sports hall, it was converted into its present structure in 1972. It is located at the heart of the school campus and provides a quiet area for private study and reading for pleasure.
A seriously impressive library – would grace an Oxford college.
Good Schools Guide
The stock includes some 22,000 books, 5500 of which are fiction, as well as a large collection of DVDs and CDs. The range of non-fiction supports the school curriculum as well as wider areas of interest and reference. The fiction section contains all literary classics as well as current popular reading for teenagers and adults with a number of titles available for e-reading. Requested materials not held in the library are obtained from the British Library or alternative sources. The periodical section contains around 70 newspaper and magazine titles, including foreign-language publications, and is complemented by an international news board and live BBC News.
The library catalogue can be accessed on dedicated computers or remotely campus-wide and externally via Firefly. Digital resources and electronic research are available on 20 networked computers with access to a wide range of online subscriptions and databases, also available remotely. Wifi access and power sockets equip the 75 study desks for personal devices. The library is open from 8am to 8.30pm and is a busy and vibrant place.
The upstairs gallery is used by the Sixth Form during study periods while the Lower Library is dedicated to the Lower School with fiction and non-fiction for Years 7 to 9 and seating to accommodate the timetabled reading lessons. There is provision for printing, scanning and photocopying and help with research is always on hand from the team of librarians.
New pupils are taught library and research skills in induction sessions, and teachers bring classes in to encourage use of a range of learning resources. Department liaison, tailored reading lists, Higher Education support and author visits promote and enhance library activities.