The mission of the Alvin ISD library program is to create and empower lifelong learners by advancing the academic expectations and aspirations of each student in every program to become accomplished readers, critical thinkers, skillful researchers, ethical users of information, and creative problem solvers.

Circulation of Materials Policy

Policy Statement:

E.C. Mason Elementary aims for students and staff to become effective users of ideas and information. To ensure this happens, the library creates a non-restrictive environment where students and staff can access the information they seek. Information and materials will represent all points of view and will “be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves.” (AASL, 2018)

Policy Specifics:

The library will maintain open circulation hours throughout the day, to encourage use. Classes will have a circulation period each week but may frequent the library whenever needed.

Procedures:

1. Students will be taught how to use and be responsible for materials.

2. Students will be allowed both free choice and materials that align with their reading level.

3. Students check out materials for a two week time span and will not be charged overdue book fees, but will need to renew books each week. Overdue notices will be sent home periodically, while keeping the materials confidential. Lost and damaged books must be paid for. If a book is later found, reimbursement will occur up to one following school year.

4. PreK – 1st grade will be allowed one book per checkout. 2nd-5th graders will be allowed two items per checkout. 

5. Faculty is not limited to the amount of materials and may keep materials for as long as they are needed and are in use.

6. Interlibrary loan, within Alvin ISD, is permitted for both students and staff.

7. Students are not permitted to check out audio visual equipment but staff may, for use in the classroom.

Please contact the Librarian for help with usernames and passwords.

• Destiny is an online library that allows students and teachers the ability to search their school library catalog.

• Britannica School Elementary is an online reference encyclopedia featuring articles intended for primary and elementary. It includes pictures, maps, videos, animations, and sounds.   

• Pebble Go is an online database featuring leveled text and easy navigation for beginning researchers. 

• National Geographic Kids includes reference books, nonfiction books, 500 downloadable images, and complete issues of National Geographic Kids magazine from 2009 - present. 

• Kids InfoBits is designed to provide access to appropriate reference material for students in K-5th grade. It includes reference content such as magazines, newspapers, maps, charts, graphs, and more than 13,000 searchable images. 

• Tumblebooks includes electronic books, videos and activities for students. It provides students with the option to have books read aloud or they can read them independently. Great resource for building fluency, comprehension and enjoyment of reading. 

• Audible: Students can access free audiobooks

• SORA:

  Students can access ebooks and audiobooks.

  Click on Alvin ISD as your school, and login with your regular credentials.

• Storyline Online: Students can access books read aloud at www.storylineonline.net

• Public Libraries: Use these links to get a library card. Within 24 hours after registering, you can access the online resources at our public libraries!

  • Brazoria County English

  • Brazoria County Spanish

  • Houston Public Library ecard

This is the link for our book fair: https://bookfairs.scholastic.com/bf/ecmasonelementaryschool

This program is a newly instated reading program for Kinder through 5th graders. Alvin ISD elementary librarians have compiled a list of books for your students to read. If they choose to participate, there will be a couple of benchmarks throughout the year, where the students will get rewards. A packet will be going home with your student to keep up with what they are reading, if they interested in participating. If you would like to print the packet, here is the link.

One Well-Rounded Elementary Reading List for Upper/Lower Grades

Goal:
Create a comprehensive list of high-quality books that encourage shared reading experiences among elementary students across the district.

Purpose:

• Promote literacy and foster a love for reading across various genres.

• Introduce students to award-winning and captivating books from our state and district-generated lists.

• Encourage students to view reading as a lifelong journey beyond the classroom.

• Provide diverse perspectives, subjects, and cultures to broaden students' horizons.

Intended Audience:
The Alvin ISD district book list is specifically designed for Alvin iSD students in grades PK-5 who are in the early stages of their reading development. The audience may include students from diverse backgrounds with varying levels of literacy. The book list aims to be inclusive and accessible to all students. Additionally, parents, guardians, educators, and staff seeking age-appropriate books for reading with or recommending to children may also find the list valuable.

Books will have point values (K-1 1 point, 2nd-3rd 2 points, 4th- 5th 3 points)

Students will earn points for program participation. When their point total has been reached, they will receive a reward!

Grades K-1   10 points total by April 25,2025

Grades 2-3   20 points total by April 25,2025

Grades 4-5    30 points total by April 25,2025

OverDrive - (click OverDrive to take you to the log-in page)

Overdrive is our district's electronic library. It's available to you 24 hours a day and 7 days week, anywhere you have an internet connection! Some of the most popular series like Big Nate and Goosebumps are available on Overdrive - so are the Bluebonnet Books!  Many are also available as audio books! 

Students and staff will login with their network username and password.

Symbaloo (Links for Students)

Monthly Newsletters

If you need any assistance, please contact Mrs. Marek