St Mary's School Calne

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Why Choose St Mary's?

St Mary’s School Libraries

ImageLibrary Mission Statement:

The libraries aim to be a resource that can be used by staff and students to support teaching, learning and research, as well as extend individuals both academically and personally by housing quality resources in welcoming facilities.

St Mary’s has three libraries, each with a different purpose and atmosphere:

  • Junior Library is an informal space where girls can relax on bean bags and read fiction,
  • Coulter Library holds the adult fiction and current issues of periodicals, such as The Week, New Statesman, New Scientist, History Today and many others,
  • Bodington Library houses the school’s non-fiction stock, as well as individual desk space for staff and students to use for work.


In addition to the 21,000 plus books and an archive of periodicals, students have access to audio books and daily newspapers.

All three libraries have computerised self-issue circulation facilities and a library induction programme takes place every year for LIV Form, as well as additional information literacy lessons throughout a girl's academic career at St Mary's. Library reading lessons happen weekly, and the girls are encouraged to become broader readers by taking part in the Reading Odyssey, with certificates and distinctions being awarded each summer.

Reading for pleasure – currently receiving much political comment during this National Year of Reading – is developed further by regular events, such as book fairs, as well as author visits.  Last year we were delighted to welcome Sarah Singleton, Dianne Hofmeyr, and Jamila Gavin to St Mary’s and this year we will be welcoming Sam Enthoven to celebrate World Book Day with us, as well as poet and story teller Alec Williams.

World Book Day, National Poetry Day and regular writing competitions are brought to the attention of the students and I am very pleased to say that a few of St Mary’s girls have had work published! With encouragement and exposure to quality fiction, I am sure that number can only rise.

'Knowledge is free at the Library.  Just bring your own container.'

Miss Smith