Google can bring you back 100,000 answers, a librarian can bring you back with the right one – Neil Gaiman
Spot on Mr Gaiman, spot on. Unfortunately, we live in a period where libraries are almost a thing of the past. What is the point of a library when we have information at the click of a button? Ask a child to research something and the first thing they’ll say is, ‘I’ll google it!’ not ‘I’ll just nip to the library’. (That is not to say Google does not have its benefits, cheesecake recipes at click of a button? Yes please!)
This is where Redbrick Academy steps in. We are intent on changing the way children perceive libraries and aim to promote the benefits of using libraries as a tool for learning and acquiring knowledge. Libraries are so much more than just books on a dusty shelf – they are a place of quiet reflection – a place where ideas are formed – a place where stories come to life, in a nutshell, a library is the heart and soul of knowledge and education. That is why we are proud to announce that Redbrick Academy has partnered up with our local library – Longsight library – for our students to take advantage of. Members of Redbrick Academy are automatically signed up to Longsight library and will be able to make use of the variety of facilities the library has to offer.
My own experience at Longsight library as a child is a positive one. Although the library has undergone many changes (glass building comes to mind!), I still remember the big brown building I use to visit every Saturday to pick up my favourite books. I vividly remember the sheer excitement of checking the library records to see whether R.L Stine’s Fear Street trilogy had been returned or whether a new Goosebumps book had been released. I even recall the time I visited the library with a friend who recommended a book and the heartbreak I endured after knowing the fate of the protagonist. My frequent visits to the library made it easier to get through a tough childhood. By reading books, I was able to enter new worlds where the possibilities were endless, become friends with the most awesome characters and fight battles with the most villainous monsters one could possibly imagine. As a child, I loved and lived through books.
Although one of our key goals at Redbrick Academy is to get children rediscovering the joys of reading, we also want to encourage students to make use of the library’s array of computers. We are living in an era where technology is used in every aspect of life, and unless one lives under a rock – there’s no avoiding it. That’s why the team at Redbrick Academy are focused on helping students acquire the necessary I.T skills to help them in life. Moreover, using computers can be a daunting experience for children, (they scare adults as well – believe me!), especially if it’s their first time. The staff at Redbrick are intent on helping children build the confidence to use computers responsibly and also ensure that every child has a positive experience.
The Redbrick Academy team want students to feel proud of being a member of Longsight library and are aiming to help students maintain a positive relationship with the library. So, to demonstrate how awesome libraries are, the Redbrick team have composed a list of benefits of holding a library membership:
- Borrow books for free! Yay!
Books are expensive creatures. If you’re a bookworm like myself, you will understand what an expensive hobby it is. However, by having access to a library, users are able to borrow and read books to their hearts content (providing books are returned at the agreed time – let’s avoid them pesky fines!).
- Longsight library have regular weekly reading/ activity sessions for different age groups during term time and holidays.
During the school holidays, Longsight library have a number of fun events to keep children entertained such as taking part in arts and crafts sessions, going to museums, parks, and other exciting day trips.
- Access to revision guides, encyclopedias, past examinations and workbooks.
It’s all there folks! If your child mentions they’re struggling with homework, exams or revision – you know where to send them….
- Safe access to the internet with library staff on hand to help.
Above are just a few examples of how children can benefit from Longsight library’s fantastic facilities. The staff at Redbrick Academy are also passionate about making the library part of their weekly schedule. They are keen to introduce students to the plethora of facilities available at Longsight library and will be holding a number of enjoyable, interactive, group sessions. Students will take part in activities such as researching online, typing exercises, PowerPoint/presentations, producing posters, and so much more! Older students looking to apply for college or employment will have the opportunity to work on their CVs and Personal Statements and will also be offered advice and support from staff. Sounds fun doesn’t it?
In the meantime, any further information about Longsight library can be found on their website, or alternatively why not pay a visit? Pick up a book while you’re there, sit back, relax, and enjoy a good read!
Longsight Library, 519 Stockport Road, Longsight M12 4NE
Website – [email protected]
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