Library - Parent Information
To contact me with questions about resources or technology issues, please email me at gmariconda@hamden.org.
Library/Media Classes
Students in grades K-6 visit the Media Center for weekly lessons and a book exchange. Classes include literature and book talks, library skills, research skills, novel engineering (a literature-based STEM unit), and technology on top of a weekly book exchange time. The library/media curriculum includes digital citizenship, evaluating information such as websites, and library and research skills, with technology skills embedded into lessons.
Library/Media Policies
Students in Kindergarten and Grade 1 borrow one book at a time, while students in Grade 2-6 may borrow two books at a time. All students may borrow more books if needed for class projects or assignments. Students may also return and borrow books during open book exchange, so effectively they may borrow more than one or two books per week. The regular borrowing period is one week.
There are no fines for overdue books, but students should not borrow more books until their previous books are returned. Families are responsible for replacement costs on lost or damaged materials per Board of Education policy, and replacement books are not generally accepted in lieu of lost book fines.
To see what books or devices are checked out, each student may log in to Destiny Discover and view their account. The link to Destiny is on the left side of this page. See the video directions on the first page of the Library webpages.
Acceptable Use Policy
During their child's registration, parents receive and sign an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP), which describes the expectations for their child's technology use. The policies regarding this are posted on the Board of Education Policies section of the district website. (6141.321 & 6141.3291) Students review the rules in a student version of the AUP in Library/Media class each year.
Online Resources
Students and parents are welcome to use online resources -- like Destiny, World Book Online, and PebbleGo -- at home. Passwords may be found on the Student Resources page.
Volunteer Opportunities
Parents are always welcome to volunteer in our school library. If no time frames exist at Dunbar Hill School, we can refer you to another Hamden Public School. Please contact Gina Mariconda, Library Media Specialist, if you are willing to help!
gmariconda@hamden.org