Welcome to the Jean Duffield Library – a thoughtfully curated space where intellectual curiosity and a love of reading are nurtured in equal measure.
The ground floor of our library is a haven for recreational reading enthusiasts. We hold a rich selection of fiction reflecting diverse voices and genres to engage readers of all ages and interests. Students are invited to lose themselves in contemporary and classic novels, explore imaginative graphic novels, or browse our treasure trove of journals and magazines.
Upstairs on the first floor, you’ll find a bright and spacious area where over 80 students can be accommodated in a tranquil space to work on projects and homework. Our extensive collection of academic texts, carefully selected to complement the curriculum across all year groups covers a vast range of topics. Students can choose between individual workstations or study tables to work individually or in groups.
Throughout the day, students can take advantage of printing, copying, scanning and even 3D printing. Students in need of essential stationery can purchase items from our shop using the school-wide cashless payment system. Our library management system, eBooks and digital magazines are easily accessible from iPads and workstations within the library during school hours, as well as from the comfort of home on any web-enabled device.
"The library is a wonderful place to be. It is filled with so many resources and thousands of great books to read. The librarians are really nice and always there to help with whatever you need."Year 8 student
Librarians
Our library is run by Mrs Pocock-Bell, Miss Chriti and Mrs Hilliar who are always ready to answer your queries, provide research advice, and recommend captivating books. They run and support an array of clubs and activities to keep students engaged and entertained throughout the year. There are lively book clubs, tailored for different year groups, where students discuss their favourite reads and participate in fun activities and games. These clubs are perfect for forging friendships and sharing literary passions with like-minded people. There are also adventurous roleplaying sessions and a weekly board games club for all year groups.
Events
Throughout the year, the department organises thrilling author events, enlightening talks, and exciting competitions. We celebrate national Poetry Day and World Book Day and mark important occasions like Black History Month, Stephen Lawrence Day, Disability Awareness Month, and LGBT History Month.
Over the past two decades, St Helen’s has joined with secondary schools in the Abingdon area to shadow the Carnegie Medal for Writing, a prestigious award honouring the best writing for children and young people in the UK. Students in Year 7 and Year 8 come together to read and discuss the shortlisted books during Trinity term with weekly meetings and three joint events with partner schools, including a fun Carnegie Tea, a challenging quiz, and the Joint Abingdon Schools’ Forum. The scheme encourages students to discover new authors and broaden their reading horizons whilst making friends along the way.
Finally, there is an annual opportunity for talented readers in Year 7 and Year 8 to showcase their reading prowess in the National Reading Champions Quiz and students in the Junior department are encouraged to take part in national literary competitions such as the 500 Words competition and the Wicked Writers Essay competition.
"I really look forward to celebrating World Book Day. The activities are fun and the whole school gets involved, even the sixth formers. I have also enjoyed Junior Book Club because I discovered authors I hadn’t read before.”Year 5 student
