Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many books do you have?
2. Do students have to check a book out every week?
3. Can students take out whatever they want?
4. What does 'just right' mean for book choices?
5. What happens if we lose a library book?
6. What if a book is damaged while in our care?
7. How do I donate a book to the library?

How many books do you have?

Well, as of April 1st  2006, our library has over 13,500 holdings.  This includes over 300 videos and 
DVD's.

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Do students have to check a book out every week?

No.  However, we do encourage it strongly.  Kindergarteners and first graders are alowed to check 
out one book per week (first graders move up to two books at mid-year).  Second through fifth 
grades can circulate two books per week.

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Can students take out whatever they want?

Well... yes and no.  We do encourage students to choose what they want.  But, we also realize that 
this is a school library, and making good book choices is important.  So, students who are allowed 
two books per week must choose a 'just right' book as their first book.  Their second book can be a 
'free choice' book.  That might be a book they want to just look at the pictures, one to read with a 
younger brother or sister, etc.

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What does 'just right' mean for book choices?

Figuring out what is a 'just right' book choice is an important skill that students need to learn.  A 
book that is just right is not too easy... but also not too hard.  It needs to be 'readable' for students 
and also 'interesting' for them.  While some students (and adults!) are naturally good at choosing 
books for themselves, others need guided practice and asssitance.

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What happens if we lose a library book?

If a book from our library is lost, you should notify us as soon as possible.  We try to have books 
replaced quickly so others can use a new copy.  Once we know the book is lost, you will receive a bill 
from the library.  You may either replace the book with a new copy (hardcover books must be 
replaced with hardcover), or pay the bill and we will order a new copy.  It is DEFINITELY better to find 
the original copy, however, as many books that we own are out of print and difficult to replace.

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What if a book is damaged while in our care?

The library staff will determine whether or not the book can be put back into circulation.  If it is a 
repair that we can make, most likely, it will go back onto the shelf.  If the book is damaged beyond 
repair (rain/water damage, stains, missing sections, etc.) families will be expected to replace or 
reimburse the library for that book.

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How do I donate a book to the library?

Great question!  There are several ways to donate a book to the Bates library.  You could visit the 
library and choose a book from our 'book donation' shelf.  Each of these titles is a book that our 
library NEEDS, and has been prepurchased for the collection.  A donation of $20 will 'buy' the book 
for the library.  Your new donation will receive a bookplate with your chosen inscription.  Your Bates 
student will also be the FIRST to check out that book.  If you would rather buy a book on your own, 
our library has a wish list on Amazon.com.  Simply go to Amazon, click on 'wish lists' and type in 
'Bates library'.  Currently, there are over 125 books on our wish list!

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