Library
The library is named after Miss Agnes Brewster, first principal of the school from 1930 to 1938.
The Agnes Brewster Memorial Library holds a large collection of resources to support the curriculum.
The collection consists of over 20,000 titles to support the teaching and learning programmes in the school. There is an extensive Fiction Collection as well as other recreational resources to encourage wide reading.
Articles from the State Library HSC resources are included in the collection in the Senior English Files which hold critical works to support HSC English. Articles from the State Library HSC resources are also held for other subjects.
The Library catalogue may be searched online at any computer throughout the school. This is particularly useful when compiling bibliographies for resources from the Library as full publication details are readily available. The Library Catalogue can also be accessed from home.
Computers
Computers are available for individual or class use, providing access to the Internet, scanning and printing facilities, as well as various software applications. Facilities for video/DVD production are also available.
Separate computers have been allocated for use by Senior students only, to provide access at all times.
iPads
The Library has iPads available for use within the Library.
Audio-Visual Equipment
Facilities for whole class viewing of films on a large screen are available, as well as other facilities for small groups or individual viewing.
Archives
The Library also houses an extensive collection of School Archives- photographs, memorabilia, school magazines, trophies and uniform items which documents the 75 year history of Hornsby Girls' High School. This collection is managed by the very active Old Girls' Union.
Journals
The Library subscribes to many print versions of journals as well as The Australia/New Zealand Reference Centre which is a an online journal database. This provides access to full text articles from over 600 journals, as well as leading Australian newspapers, reference works, biographies and images. Access to this database is available on every computer throughout the school. Home access to this online database is also available.
Online Resources
- Cosmos: the Science of Everything
- Cambridge Collections Online
- Issues in Society
- Choice Online
- World Book Encyclopaedia Advanced Online
- Online Reference Generator
Student Information
Borrowing
Students in Years 7-10 may borrow up to 20 fiction and 20 non-fiction resources at one time. Students in Years 11-12 may borrow up to 30 fiction and 30 non-fiction resources in addition to all English texts.
The normal loan period is two weeks. Resources may be reserved. Renewals may be made where the item has not been reserved by another student.
Games
Games such as Scrabble and Chess are available at the Library Desk.
Book Groups
Book Groups operate during lunch times. Students may also participate in online book forums on the school Intranet and through Moodle.
Premier's Reading Challenge
Students participate in the NSW Premiers Reading Challenge. Details are available from the Teacher-Librarian.
Year 7 Library Lessons
Year 7 students participate in Library sessions designed to enhance their use and enjoyment of the Library. They are instructed in the use of teh Online Library Catalogue, how to use the Online Referencing Generator to create a Reference List for assignments, where to find resources, digital resources such as World Book Advanced, as well as general Library procedures and facilities.
Library Monitors
Students may volunteer to assist in the Library. They learn how the Library Management System operates, process loans and returns and assist with shelving, student requests, displays and other Library activities. Currently there are 40 Library Monitors.