Libraries

Our school libraries are vibrant, student-centered spaces dedicated to fostering a love of reading, supporting academic achievement, and developing critical information literacy skills.

We provide access to a diverse collection of books, digital resources, and technology to enhance students' learning experiences. Our libraries are places where students can explore new ideas, collaborate on projects, and engage in lifelong learning. By integrating with classroom activities and offering various literacy programs, we aim to empower students to become curious, informed, and enthusiastic learners.

School Libraries

AUGS

ELC

HILLCREST

OAKLAND

W.C. PETTY

Illinois Library Book Awards

Our schools are proud to engage students in the Monarch, Bluestem, and Caudill Awards, three distinguished book award programs that recognize outstanding literature and encourage a love of reading among young readers in Illinois.

Monarch Award: The Monarch Award, named after the state insect, the Monarch butterfly, is designed for children in kindergarten through third grade. It encourages young readers to explore a variety of books and vote for their favorite. This award helps develop early literacy skills and fosters a lifelong love of reading.

Bluestem Award: The Bluestem Award, named after the state prairie grass, is intended for students in third through fifth grade. It features a diverse list of 20 books, encouraging readers to expand their reading horizons. Students who participate read at least four books from the list and vote for their favorite, promoting critical thinking and discussion about literature.

Rebecca Caudill Young Readers’ Book Award: Named in honor of Illinois author Rebecca Caudill, this award is for students in fourth through eighth grade. It encourages young readers to read from a list of 20 nominated titles and vote for their favorite. This program aims to foster a deeper appreciation for quality literature and to engage students in evaluating and discussing books.

Participation in these award programs not only enhances students' reading skills, but empowers them to have a voice in recognizing literary excellence. Through these programs, we aim to instill a lifelong passion for reading and an appreciation for diverse literary works.

Battle of the Books

Our middle and elementary schools proudly participate in the Battle of the Books, an exciting reading competition where students engage in friendly rivalry by reading selected titles and answering questions about them. This program encourages teamwork, critical thinking, and a love of reading.