Libraries

Cannon School has three libraries to meet the research needs and personal interests of the entire school community. Our libraries have a combined collection of over 20,000 print volumes, an expanding eBook collection, and access to the latest in online resources. Designed with the 21st-century student in mind, our libraries are equipped with the latest in supporting technology. Three full-time librarians collaborate with teachers to support the JrK-12 curriculum and are available throughout the school day to assist students.

Lower School Library / IDEA Hub

The Lower School Library and Computer Lab have morphed into a collaborative, creative and energetic space called the IDEA Hub. In the IDEA Hub, books, media and technology merge to encourage hands-on discovery, learning, and creating. Students focus on integrated, cross-curricular units of study and aim for experiences that develop deep connections to stories, information, and the world around them.

Students make use of print and digital resources to hone research skills. Students also utilize multiple forms of technology such as Chromebooks, laptops, iPads and the IDEA Wall for visual thinking, brainstorming and designing. The Green Screen provides the capacity to film in front of any background students choose, and the Production Studio allows students to record audio in a quiet space.

Middle School Library

The Middle School Library provides library access for grades 5-8. Classes and individual students alike may enjoy the space, use both digital and print resources for research needs, and find reading materials. Students are given the benefit of checking out materials on the honor system, aligning with Cannon's focus on personal responsibility and integrity.

The library staff works closely with teachers and students on curricular and co-curricular projects, to teach library navigation and good research skills. Students learn about a variety of genres which they use to develop autonomy and self-awareness by analyzing their literature preferences.

Students are encouraged to branch out, take risks, and explore new interests. iPads and laptops allow students access to our digital catalogue as well as our collection of electronic resources such as EBSCO, Encyclopedia Britannica, Gale Virtual Reference Library, and others.

Upper School Library

The Upper School Library’s learning environment provides space for small group work, seminars, and individual study. The flexible schedule followed in the Upper School allows for extended time for classroom research and for individual informational needs.

Every student in the Upper School is equipped with a personal laptop that allows access to the extensive collection of online resources such as ArtStor Digital Library, EBSCOHost Research Databases, Encyclopedia Britannica, Gale Virtual Reference Library, JSTOR Academic Journals, Newsbank Historical Newspapers, and Noodletools.

To assist with internet searches, an expanding Virtual Reference Shelf provides a list of credible Internet resources for staff and students. A web-based catalog provides instant access to all library resources.