Allambie Heights Public School

Ever Aim High

Telephone02 9451 5440

Emailallambieht-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Library

Welcome to our school library! Our library is a welcoming space where all students are encouraged to explore, learn, and develop a love of reading. We strive to inspire curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, offering a diverse range of resources that support both academic growth and personal development. Aligned with our school motto, Ever Aim High, we aim to support every student on their learning journey, encouraging them to set ambitious goals, explore new ideas, and become confident, lifelong learners. Through a nurturing and engaging environment, we empower students to reach their full potential and approach the world with enthusiasm and knowledge.

Borrowing

Each class has a set time each week to visit the library and borrow books. Students are also welcome to return and borrow books during lunchtime. Books are loaned for one week but can be renewed for another week by simply asking for a renewal. Students are responsible for returning books on time and in good condition. Reminders about overdue or damaged books will be sent home when needed. If a book is lost or damaged, families may be asked to cover the cost of replacement. Thank you for supporting our school library!

Library Opening Hours

Our school library is open Monday to Thursday. Students will attend the library with their class on allocated days for a 40 minute lesson.

Students are also able to visit the library during the second half of lunch on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. During these times, all students are welcome to come in to read, borrow books, draw, or do some quiet colouring. The library is a calm and friendly space where everyone can enjoy a peaceful break.

Accessing the School Library Catalogue from Home

Students can easily access the full school library catalogue from home through the DET Student Portal.

Simply log in using their student login details (firstname.surename# and their password) and click on the 'My School Library' tile.

From there, you can browse the library’s collection of books, view your current loans, check past loans, and even borrow available audiobooks—all from the comfort of home. Happy reading!

Borrowing Audio Books

Did you know you can now borrow audiobooks through our school library catalogue? It’s a great way to enjoy books on the go – whether you're at home, on the bus, or relaxing after school.

Here’s how to get started:

  1. Log in to your Department of Education (DET) Student Portal.

  2. Click on the ‘My School Library’ tile.

  3. Once you're in the library system, use the search bar to find the title you're looking for – or filter your search by selecting ‘audiobooks’.

  4. If you see this icon next to the title of the book it is available as an audio book.

  1. When you find a book you like, simply click on the cover image then click ‘Borrow’ and start listening right away.

The below example shows that the book titled ‘Charlie and the chocolate factory’ is currently available as an audio book.

All you need is your school login and headphones!

Explore new stories and learn in a whole new way with our growing collection of audiobooks. Happy listening!

Library Monitors

Our Year 6 Library Monitors play a key role in keeping our library running smoothly. They specialise in helping younger students find and borrow books during lunchtime visits, as well as assisting with shelving and tidying up. Their leadership and support make the library a welcoming and organised space for all students.

Staff

The library is managed by a qualified Teacher Librarian, supported by an additional teacher librarian in training (Mrs Hagan) and clerical staff. Our school’s Teacher Librarian is Mrs. Maisie Buncombe.


Events

Children's Book Week 2025 - Book an Adventure

Children’s Book Week is a highlight of the year, celebrating Australian children's literature and fostering a love of reading. 

AHPS will celebrate Book Week this year in Term 3 Week 5.

The theme for this year is "Book an Adventure", inviting students and families to embark on imaginative journeys through storytelling.

This year's theme, "Book an Adventure" encourages everyone to explore new worlds and ideas through books. The official artwork, created by Jess McGeachin, features a whimsical map filled with imaginary characters, capturing the adventurous spirit of the theme.

Throughout the week, our school will host various events, including author visits, storytelling sessions, and themed activities. These events aim to inspire young readers and celebrate the joy of books.

More information will be shared with students and families later in the term.

Book Fair

As part of Education Week in Term 3, Week 3, our school is excited to host a Book Fair – a wonderful opportunity to foster a love of reading across our community.

Larrikan House will be curating a selection of age-appropriate and engaging books available for purchase. Families are encouraged to buy books for personal use and also consider purchasing a book to donate to our school library, helping enrich our shared learning environment.

Stay tuned for more details, and thank you for supporting literacy and lifelong learning at our school!

National Simultaneous Storytime 2025

National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) is an annual event where children across Australia and New Zealand come together to read the same picture book at the same time. In 2025, this exciting event will take place on Wednesday, 21 May at 12:00 PM AEST. The chosen book for this year is The Truck Cat, written by Deborah Frenkel and illustrated by Danny Snell. This heartwarming story follows Tinka, a cat who lives in a truck with his human, Yacoub, as they journey together and discover what it means to find home.

NSS is a celebration of storytelling and literacy, bringing together over two million participants from schools, libraries, and homes across the country. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to engage with literature in a shared experience, fostering a love of reading and a sense of community.

Premier's Reading Challenge 2025

The Premier’s Reading Challenge is an annual initiative aimed at encouraging students to develop a love of reading and improve literacy skills. Students are challenged to read and record 20 books between 24th February and 22nd August. Students can choose from a list of approved books and are encouraged to read widely across different genres. The challenge is not a competition but a personal goal to inspire reading for pleasure and learning.

Participating in the Premier’s Reading Challenge provides students with an opportunity to explore new books, enhance their reading skills, and develop a lifelong love of reading.


 Great options to find a good book:

Start by exploring our school library—ask the teacher librarian for recommendations based on your interests and check out online resources like:

https://www.yourkidsnextread.com.au/podcast/

https://momotimetoread.blogspot.com/

Premiers reading challenge lists - https://online.education.nsw.gov.au/prc/booklist/home.html

 

Don’t forget to ask friends, teachers, or family members what they’re reading—you might discover a new favorite! Whether you love adventures, mysteries, graphic novels, or fantasy, there’s a great book out there waiting for everyone!