About the Collins Library
Connecting People and Information
The Collins Library facilitates information literacy (access, evaluation, and use) through an educational program that teaches library and study skills classes, as well as offering individual service from the librarian on a daily basis. Students are also encouraged to sign up for individual research appointments to work one-on-one with the librarian, reinforcing the study skills students learn in class to promote successful, independent learning. By the time students leave Dunn they have developed the skills and strategies they will need for the research and study required in college and beyond.
The library is a vital part of the academic program at Dunn School. We strive to help students, faculty and staff acquire lifelong patterns of learning, as it is an essential part of Dunn's commitment to literacy and personal development.
Wireless computers are provided in the library and are also available in the computer lab. These networked workstations allow users to access their personal files and/or any resources available on the school network, or the Internet. Students can access the Collins Library card catalog, a variety of on-line databases and card catalogs from the Santa Barbara Public Library, Gold Coast Library Network, and University of California Santa Barbara.
The Collins Library is also home to a student art gallery, the school's archives, and a card/board game area. It is a common location for student meetings and is a hub of campus events. Additionally, a conference area/classroom setting has been created within the renovated stacks.
Why is the library so important?
The library is important because students need to learn information literacy! Research assignments that are co-taught with the librarian incorporate essential study skills that help students access, evaluate, and use information more effectively. This increases academic efficiency and student achievement by teaching kids how to learn (process) as well as what to learn (subject content).
The age of information & technology can be distracting and overwhelming. To produce quality work in today's world, students must know how to choose the best sources, build effective searches, evaluate results, organize tasks, synthesize ideas, and stay focused on their academic goals.
- Education experts like Keith Lance and David Loerstcher have shown a direct correlation between excellent library media programs and student achievement in the United States. Students and teachers need a library rich in current print and electronic resources plus a professional library staff to support their academic needs and personal interests.
- School is less stressful and more rewarding when students are taught information literacy and study skills to support the learning process. The library is here to give that opportunity to every student.
Book and Media Donations
Used books (quality fiction and non-fiction) and audio-video materials (preferably DVDs, CDs, or books on CD) are always welcome at the Collins Library. Donations are used to supplement the library's holdings or are placed on the "Free Book and Media Exchange" shelves in the library for community use. Left over books are sold to Valley Books in Solvang for store credit or are donated to the St. Mark's book fair, which benefits the Solvang Branch Library.or call
