Library
June 1, 2026 – Edition 7
Life Lessons from Books
The library has recently celebrated several special events that have provided students with meaningful opportunities to explore important life lessons through literature and shared experiences.
One significant occasion was IDAHOBIT Day, which encouraged Senior School students to celebrate diversity, inclusion and acceptance. Through stories, students are able to develop empathy by seeing the world from another character’s perspective and gaining insight into experiences, emotions and challenges that may differ from their own.
Literature often reflects real-life situations and emotions, helping students recognise the impact that words and actions can have on others. Equally important, stories also demonstrate the positive influence individuals and communities can have when people are accepted, supported and encouraged to be themselves.
The library also proudly celebrated National Simultaneous Storytime, a unique event that brings together millions of children across Australia and beyond to read the same book at the same time. This year’s story, Luna Roo: the Kangaroo Baller, followed a new soccer captain who used determination, perseverance and positivity to unite her team and achieve success together.
All Junior School students participated in the shared reading experience, gathering in various locations throughout the library and Foundation building. Following the reading, students in Years 5 and 6 took part in activities exploring both team values and personal values.
Through a range of discussion scenarios, students considered how values influence behaviour and decision-making. One scenario asked students whether they would choose their best friend or the most talented player for the final spot on a team. These respectful discussions challenged students to reflect on concepts such as loyalty, fairness and responsibility, while recognising that values can sometimes compete with one another.
The ability of literature to spark thoughtful conversations and deepen understanding is something the library greatly values, and we embrace every opportunity to create these experiences for our students.
I would also like to sincerely thank the library staff for their support and teamwork. Events such as these are only possible because of the dedication and collaboration of a strong team working together behind the scenes.
Di Thompson
Head of Joan Reid Resource Centre
