Through the CSG libraries students have access to over 70 databases and electronic resources and tens of thousands of print and nonprint materials using LibGuides pages and the catalogs of Beaton Library and Power Library. Many of the digital resources are searchable and accessible directly via the online catalog. Research skill building takes place by way of curricular assignments and projects that result in accomplished readers and researchers ready for college level work at a skill level notably above their peers. The librarians work with classroom teachers to create class pages for projects and assignments so that assignments are scaffolded to fit the research skill level of the students.

 

Reading, research, curiosity, and exploration are woven into the vibrant library program at Columbus School for Girls. Girls from our youngest students to our seniors discover developmentally and age-appropriate books and resources to strengthen their reading and literacy skills, awaken their curiosity, and provide them research answers to their questions. In addition to the print and digital resources, the libraries are staffed with librarians ready and eager to provide individual support to reading and exploration of literature and topics of interest. Columbus School for Girls has a strong tradition of producing strong writers and readers. Our graduates go on to become published authors, playwrights, as well as accomplished writers in their chosen profession…from science researcher to global governmental research report writer to attorneys and judges who compose well-written legal analysis. Being able to present a cohesive response or request is key to becoming a change-maker or a problem-solver in a world of great need.

The libraries honor the values of CSG in every aspect of the collection, especially by providing a wide range of female literary protagonists and role models, and by displaying sensitivity to diversity in representing issues of race, ethnicity, religion, class, ability, sexual orientation, and learning differences.

Power Library, a bustling hub of activity, placed in the center of the Lower School and a quick walk away from the Program for Young Children, has cozy reading corners, a story area, and banks of windows that provide visitors with a wonderful vantage point to observe the students.

Beaton Library has an arched ceiling and large two-story windows which make it a light and airy space. Located across from the Kobacker Writing Center, Beaton also has the ever popular individual study carrels as well as comfortable seating for individuals and groups. To encourage student creativity and build spatial skill, Beaton Library has a Gallery to display student artwork and writings as well as various areas supplied with Legos, knitting supplies, jigsaw puzzles, and a chess set.

Alumnae return to CSG with anecdotes about their successes and expressions of gratitude for their preparation for college.They discover that their research experiences at CSG gave them superb preparation for any college assignment and they often find themselves tutoring peers through the writing and research process, a strong evidence of the strength of the program at CSG.