Our Library
Welcome to the Gartree High School Library — a calm, inviting space at the heart of our school. Situated on the first floor, our library offers a quiet place to read, research and explore a wide range of books. It is a space for everyone, whether you are choosing a book to take home, working independently, or enjoying a lesson booked by your teacher. When the weather is fine, and staff are available, you may also be able to use our open balcony area.
The library is open throughout the school day and for a short time after school. If you would like to visit during break or lunch, please collect a ticket from the library between 8:20 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. This helps us to ensure the space remains safe and comfortable for all students.
Finding and Borrowing Books
How to Borrow
We use a computerised system to issue and return books. Pupils may usually borrow two books at a time. When you have chosen a book, bring it to the counter so it can be issued in your name. A return date will be stamped inside — please return or renew your book on time so others can enjoy it too.
Books must not be taken from the library unless they have been issued to you.
Loan Periods
You may borrow books for up to two weeks. If you need longer, please bring the book to the desk so we can renew it for you. Hand books directly to the librarian rather than leaving them on the desk. If a book goes missing or becomes damaged, you are responsible for it while it is on your account.
Overdue, Lost, or Damaged Books
If your book is overdue, your form tutor will receive a reminder list. Please return or renew the book as soon as possible.
If you have lost or damaged a book, speak to the librarian. You may be asked to contribute to a replacement so we can maintain our collection for everyone.
Library Sections and Resources
Fiction
Our fiction books are arranged alphabetically by the author’s surname. Some books written for older readers (KS4) are marked as 13+ or 14+ and are kept in a separate area.
13+ Section
You may borrow books from the 13+ section once we have written permission from your parent or carer. Your library account will then be updated to allow this.
Non-Fiction
Non-fiction titles are arranged using the Dewey Decimal System. Subject posters are displayed to help you find what you need, and the library team is always happy to assist.
Using Eclipse
You can browse our catalogue and reserve books online. Choose “Gartree” in the school selector and sign in using your school Microsoft login.
Additional Collections
We offer a wide range of reading materials to suit different interests, including:
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Manga and graphic novels
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LGBTQ+ titles
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GCSE texts
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Short reads
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Barrington Stoke books (dyslexia-friendly)
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Well-being books
If there is something specific you’d like to read, please speak to the librarian — we will always try to help.
Reading at Gartree
At Gartree, reading is an important part of school life. Much like exercise, reading strengthens your mind, supports well-being and helps you grow as a person. It introduces new ideas, encourages empathy, and offers a chance to escape into different worlds.
Finding time to read can be difficult, but a few minutes each day can make a difference. If you’ve struggled with reading in the past, please don’t be discouraged — you may simply not have found the right book yet. Your reading journey is unique, and we are here to support you.
Your English teacher will take you to the library at least once a fortnight, and you are welcome to pick up a ticket to visit at break or lunchtime. Please take care of the books you borrow and return them on time.
Reading Challenges
We run a series of year-group reading challenges to inspire and support regular reading:
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Year 7: 7 for 7 Reading Challenge
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Year 8: 8 for 8 Reading Challenge
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Year 9: 9 for 9 Reading Challenge
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Years 10–11: Ask for our recommended reading lists
Please speak to the librarian if you’d like support choosing your next book.