As of this year, a new regulation has been introduced for lunch passes to the library. Any student can still enter the library, as long as they speak with one of our yard duties to get a pass and confirm that the library is not full.

Along with the pass, students are not allowed to use the bathrooms in the two-story building or go inside the building at all. To access the library, you must enter through the back door along the blacktop.

Mrs. Brown, our school librarian, explained the benefits of the passes: “The library passes let me know which students are supposed to be in the library during lunchtime, and they also limit the number of students to 20 so we’re not over capacity.” The passes ensure that only a manageable number of students are in the library at a time.

Ms. Pallas also points out the downside of the passes: “The only downside I know of is that students sometimes hold onto them instead of putting them in the basket when they go to see Mrs. Brown.” Some students keep their passes to use the next day, rather than returning them to the basket for others to use. This can affect students across all grades who are trying to access the library due to the loss of a pass.

To get a pass, speak with one of the yard duties outside, typically Ms. Pallas or Ms. Taylor. Yard duties will only distribute passes after the 12-minute mark, due to the 12-minute rule, giving you time to eat lunch.

Going to the library at lunch opens up many opportunities and activities for students. Whether you want to read, do homework, or participate in activities like chess or puzzles, the library has something for everyone. Having a limit of 20 students ensures a quiet space for both work and relaxation.