Skyhawk Library Open House Info

Welcome to the 2026-2027 School Year! My name is Laura Stafford, and this will be my third year as Librarian at Stinson MS. I will provide a newsletter at the beginning of each month, which will highlight all of the important library events and activities for the month. The newsletter will be shared with students, staff, and the community via Schoology, social media, our school website, and the Principal's monthly newsletter. This will be the BEST way to stay up-to-date with Library news.

The mission of the Stinson Middle School Library is to:

• provide materials on curriculum subjects and personal interests in print and digital formats

• support education and research in an intellectually and culturally open environment

• encourage students and staff to become effective users of ideas and information

• collect, organize, and facilitate access of information in print and digital formats

• promote lifelong reading and learning both for pleasure and for information.

In the Library, you will be able to:

• Check out books
• Learn to use NISD digital resources
• Study/Work on classwork
• Use computers
• Play games
• Join clubs
• Use makerspaces
• Research
• Work together

When can I check out books?

As soon as you are ready! All students already have a library account, and can start checking out books right away.

When can I come to the Library?

The library will be open most mornings before school (unless there is a meeting, testing, or other event). Many students enjoy starting their day in the library. Students may also visit during lunch. I will provide a limited supply of library passes during lunch, which are first-come-first-serve. The library is open during lunch on days when there are no classes scheduled during lunch periods. Students may also visit the library at any time during the day with an official Library pass from their teacher.

How many books can I check out?

Students may have up to three books checked out at a time. The checkout period is three weeks. Students may renew a book if they need more time to finish; however, you may be asked to return a book after one renewal if it is a popular title and other students are waiting.

All ELA classes will visit the library with their class approximately once per month to exchange books and work on a collaborative lesson. Other classes may also schedule their class to meet in the library for special projects or events.

The library is a vibrant and engaging place for students, and we're always looking for ways to enhance their learning experience. Throughout the year, we use a variety of supplies for educational activities and projects that complement classroom learning. Here are a few ways your donations will be used:

• Hands-on learning: Supplies like construction paper, glue, and markers are used for projects that help students visualize concepts from their classes. For example, they might create a diorama of a book's setting, build a model of a historical landmark, or design a poster to present a research topic.

• Literacy engagement: We use craft supplies to create bookmarks, decorate journals, or make puppets for storytelling. These activities encourage creativity and make reading more interactive and fun.

• Collaborative projects: Students often work together on group projects in the library. Your donations will help us provide the materials they need to build, create, and innovate as a team.

With over 850 students using the library, the cost of these supplies can add up quickly. Any donations from our Skyhawk families are greatly appreciated and will directly support our students' educational journey.

I am always looking for a few reliable parent volunteers to assist with Library tasks. No experience required! Click the button below to apply.

I am always happy to hear from students, parents, and staff who have any questions about the library. You can reach me at (210) 397-3633 or laura.stafford@nisd.net. You can also follow us on social media at @NISDStinsonLib.

Come by and say hello!

🙂Mrs. Stafford