The Library Report

The Main Library, 1961

The library was originally located at the back of what is now the auditorium and was managed by Bro. Joachim and later by Bro. Gabriel. In 1961 the Senior Library was located on the 6ili Form Block. In 1962 it was air conditioned and became the second home of many sixth formers

Between 1979 - 1985 the Library was managed by Ms. Sheera Badree, the first professional librarian to come on staff Management of libraries at both ends of the school was difficult and so both the Senior and Junior Libraries were brought together under one roof on the Sixth form Block. The Junior Library was situated where the Art Room is at present, in the former Music Room. Ms. Badree organised the large amount of material in a very systematic way. Rules were made to protect the books while Library classes were held and the Library Prefect system was introduced.

The present librarian, Ms. Lucyanna Moy Hing came on staff in 1985 and continued the good work of Ms. Badree who was promoted to Librarian II at the Industrial Court. The collection is being continuously developed. Visits to other school libraries and the U.W.I. Main Library are made to source additional material. Library classes for the Form Ones continue.

Mention must be made of Mr. Bernard Battershield, who has assisted in the Library since his retirement from teaching at the College. He has given yeoman service and is very reliable and supportive.

The Library is open Monday to Friday from 7.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sixth formers have access to the Library after hours and on weekends and during vacations.

At present the Library accommodates (seats) 58 students, this is woefully inadequate for a College of over 800 students and many are forced to sit on the carpet. The state of the Library during exams is indescribable, it is amazing how students continue to function in this environment. There is an urgent need for more tables and chairs as well as cubicles for private study for sixth formers. There is also a need for additional funding as the Government does not provide a grant each year. Bro. Michael does set aside funds for the Library, but these have become insufficient to both maintain the state of the collection and increase it due to the rising costs of books and periodicals.

Finally, it is a sad fact that many students today don't read as much as they should nor do they know how to make effective use of the Library facilities available to them. The loss though is theirs as there are wonderful adventures to be had in books.