Q: How do I log into the digital library catalog?

A: On the catalog home page:

1. Look up in the right corner for the "Login" button, and click it.

2. Enter your username (first.last name).

3. Your default password is your student ID number (same as the lunch number). If your child is unaware of this number, do not hesitate to contact me and I can share that with them/guardians. 

4. Find books you love! 

5. If you would like to place a hold on a book, simply click the button that says "hold" underneath the title. We will deliver your child's hold to their classroom as soon as it becomes available! 

Q: What are the library's hours?

A: Our Murray Middle School Library/Media Center is open from 8:00-3:40 every day! While your child does NOT have an assigned time to visit with their homeroom, they are able to visit our library, with teacher permission, any day or time for book return or check-out! Teachers are also able to sign up for collaborative lessons in the media center. 

Q: My child's library book has been damaged or lost. What do I do?

A: Sometimes books get lost or damaged. It is sad, but true. I teach our Falcons the importance of responsibility and returning library books is one way that students practice this; however, we understand that things happy. When a book is lost or damaged, we ask that you determine if you are able to pay the replacement cost for the book. A letter stating the cost will be sent home with your child. Please return payment in a LABELED envelope (with students name) to the library as soon as possible. Payments can be made using exact cash or check (payable to Murray Middle School Library) and will be used to replace the book lost or damaged. Unable to pay for the replacement? Contact me and I will make every effort to assist you. 

Q: My child is coming home with library books that are above/below their reading level. What do I do?

A: Our school library does not label books according to reading level. Students are able to choose books based on their preference and interests. As the librarian, I do teach lessons on choosing a "just right" book and encourage your students to take a sneak peek inside of a book before checking out. I stress that finding a book with words we know is not only what good readers do, but it makes reading your book more fun. 

Research has shown that giving children choice in their reading lives leads to independent, motivated, and self-aware students who are able to experience books (and in turn, the schoolwork associated with them) on a deeper level. 

Students choose books for a variety of reasons. A n eighth grade student may check out a picture book because during the school day they are asked to read increasingly difficult texts and are finding a mental rest in their selected book. A sixth grader may choose a larger chapter book because the cover appeals to them or big brother was reading something similar at home. These are not reasons to chastise your child, but are opportunities to open a conversation about how to find a "just right" book and to praise them for being an enthusiastic reader. 

Q: My child is reading Graphic Novels all the time. Should I be worried? 

A: Fear not! Graphic Novels are not only considered "real reading', but are also incredibly beneficial for engaging both parts of your brain and working on important skills like inferencing, understanding Author's purpose, context clues, and visual/media literacy. Graphic Novels ask readers to follow a unique plotline, find problems and solutions, and understand character development through the combination of pictures and words. That's no small feat! These fantastic books are perfect bridging points for students struggling to find a home in larger novels, or introductions to new genres and topics. 

I understand the impulse to see a book full of pictures and wonder if your child is really reading something age appropriate or wish they had picked up your favorite novel instead. Remember, Graphic Novels are in fact - novels. 

Q: How can I help my child become a better reader?

A: The absolute best way to ensure that your child grows up to love reading is to model a love for reading and books at home. I would love to tell you that a certain program or website will guarantee this for you, but anyone who has ever played a sport will remind you that it isn't the coach's desire, the top of the line gear, or the best summer camp that creates an athlete. It is the day in, day out practice and the motivation from those around you. 

How can you model this love of reading?

• Read yourself! Show your child that reading is important to you. 

• Read with your child! It doesn't matter whether your child is 3 or 13 - reading together helps to build a stronger emotional bond, expands vocabularies, exposes children to a variety of genres, and creates a positive connection to books. 

• Ask questions! Don't be afraid to ask your child what they are reading right now. You can also ask them what they are learning from the book, what will happen next, or even what they would have done in the character's shoes. 

Q: Can parents check-out books too?

A: Yes! Any parent of a Murray Middle School student may ask a librarian to create a library account for them. Parents can use their accounts to take out any items they choose.

Q: How can I make a monetary donation to Murray library?

A: We are so incredibly fortunate to have the support from our Murray community! If you are interested in making a monetary donation directly to our library, you can donate cash or check (payable to Murray Middle School Library) at any time. All donations are used directly towards purchasing student book requests and replacements of most-loved titles that are no longer in the condition to be circulated. 

Q: Can I play online games in the library?

A: Gaming has become a fascinating hobby for many of our students and at Murray and we want our student learning in an environment that intrigues and feeds their curiosities and  one that promotes problem solving and collaboration; therefore every effort is made to keep learning engaging and exciting. While every experience will be one promoting learning, we do believe that "gaming" has an important role in creating 21st century learners! All games and exercises taking place at school will be age appropriate and taught in alignment with our digital safety standards. 

Q: How many items does the library have in its collection?

A: Approximately 5,500 books but I am making every effort to increase our collection!

Cannot find what you're looking for? Please do not hesitate to contact me at kristin.bazemore@nhcs.net!