Reading and The Library

HDS library logo DROPPED From Douglas Adams to Benjamin Zephaniah, the Humphry Davy School library is very well stocked and has over 11,000 books for students and staff to borrow. Take your pick from fact, fiction, graphic novels, poetry or quick reads for readers who want a shorter text. We also stock a good range of magazines with titles to appeal to all.

Encouraging a positive reading culture in and out of school is of vital importance to us and to support this aim the library is home to the Kernow Youth Book Award (KYBA) reading group. KYBA students read and discuss six selected books chosen by participating schools across Cornwall, before choosing their favourite and attending an exclusive award ceremony at Camborne Science & International Academy where they get the opportunity to meet the authors and attend workshops.

We also take part in the Bookbuzz initiative, a BookTrust reading programme that supports schools to encourage reading for pleasure. Every Year 7 student is given the opportunity to choose their own book to take home and keep from a list of carefully selected titles. This always proves popular at the start of their first year at Humphry Davy and creates a real ‘buzz’ about reading!

The Library is a quiet, bright space to sit and read, do homework or relax with friends during break or lunch. We also have a range of drop in clubs during lunchtime; from Games Club to Eco Club! We are open every day after school for Homework Club where students can either work on the computers in the Learning Zone or quietly at tables in the library. It is also the perfect space for hosting literary events such as author visits and World Book Day activities.

Students can search for any books on 'Eclipse', the library catalogue (see below link or click here). In order to check stock availability, view reading lists and read or write reviews and make reservations though, they will need an individual login, so should contact Ms Atkins, the librarian. If a student thinks the library needs a particular book or series, they can make suggestions to Ms. Atkins, who reviews all requests throughout the year. Students are also encouraged to complete ARP quizzes on the latest book they've read.

Students play a practical role in the refreshment of library stock, and are often taken to Waterstones in Truro and The Edge of the World Bookshop in Penzance to select new titles.

The Rewards Shop is also based in the library and students are able to see some of the Rewards on offer in our display units and collect them at arranged times. Please email Ms Atkins if you have any queries or suggestions regarding the shop.

Additionally, the library is also home to Careers. Here students can pick up a college prospectus or have a chat with the Careers Advisor about their plans for the future.

If you have any questions regarding the library then please contact Ms Atkins: catkins@humphry-davy.cornwall.sch.uk.

View our Library Catalogue