Library

From our librarian, Ms. Najma Hussain: Encino Elementary Library

The Encino Charter School Library was renovated and expanded in March 2009. At that time the collection numbered around 10,000 pieces. Since then the collection has expanded to over 13,000 pieces. This is more than 26 books per student which is higher than the national recommended average!

The non-fiction section complements the school curriculum and comprises about a third of the total collection. The rest of the collection is Fiction, chapter books, picture books, easy readers and transitional chapter books. All books are LAUSD approved and are filed in accordance with the LAUSD Library Services guidelines.

We have used the reading program “Accelerated Reader” at Encino Charter for the past 12 years, and all books in the library that have an “AR” quiz are identified by a colored sticker which denotes the reading level of the book. The children can check out a book in their reading level and take a quiz on it. This not only earns them points but also gives their teachers another way to keep track of their students reading progress. Parents can also access “AR” from home and keep track of their child’s progress. Click here for more details and to access AR online.

Each class visits the library once a week but the students may also visit the library at any time during the school day to change their books. The Library is also open during recess and lunch period for the students. I read weekly to the Pre-school and Kindergarten classes and will happily read to any other grade class that asks me to.

Click here to view the online catalog to search for books that are part of the Encino Charter Library. You can find a book and determine if it is in the library or checked out. If you find a book that is checked out, feel free to write down the title and you or your child can come in to ask me to place the book on hold for you. Parents can also see if a particular book has an AR test.

Each student may check out 2 books . The books are due back after 2 weeks and may be renewed as many as 2 times provided that there are no holds. If a book is lost or damaged the student is responsible for paying for the book or purchasing an equivalent book. In cases of financial hardship it is possible to forgive the fine. BUT if not taken care of this will remain on the students record forever! Paperback books will not be accepted in exchange for a lost hardback book. It is not the policy of the LAUSD to levy fines for late books in Elementary School.

Money to buy new books and replace old ones comes primarily from fund-raising. I have a Book Fair once a year which is the main source of funds for the library. Our school library accepts donated books (not encyclopedias) and if not used in the library they will be distributed to the classrooms.

If you have any questions about the library please feel free to contact me by e-mail: [email protected] or by coming in to visit the school library - Everyone is always welcome!