Dear Hillers,

As we come to the closing of the school year, our library is abuzz with excitement and activity. It's  time to return borrowed books and check out our summer reading recommendations. 

This month, our high school library celebrates Pride Month and proudly showcases reading and resources  highlighting LGBTQIA+ voices and life experiences. 

By celebrating Pride Month, we are creating an inclusive space for all students to explore and appreciate diverse voices and personal stories. 

We invite you to join us in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can learn and grow together. We commemorate Pride month in June because it was this month in 1969 that marked the turning point for the Gay Liberation Movement. It is known as the Stonewall Uprising that took place in Manhattan in 1969. (https://www.ala.org/aasl/advocacy/promo/lgbtq-pride-month) 

We encourage you to visit our library and check out books on display that talk about the Stonewall event, as well as other pertinent information about the movement. Please come by and view the display of art created by our GSA Club. Engage with the Pride Month celebration as we demonstrate our support for diversity and inclusion.

Please check out a great selection of books curated by Mass Teen Book Choice Award - Nominees 2024 

• Don't forget to log onto your SORA account!  It's a fantastic resource that provides access to a wide range of FREE audiobooks, ebooks, and magazines online. Whether you're into fiction, non-fiction, or just want to catch up on the latest news, SORA has something for everyone.
   
• Be sure to check out the Hopkinton Public Library.
   
• Register for your HPL library card!

Get a Library Card | Hopkinton Public Library

 

Enjoy your summer and find time to relax, reconnect, and READ!

Mrs. Abraham

Hi Hillers,

It is that time in the school year when our routine schedule is winding down while other end of year special activities, exam preparations and plans for summer are ramping up. During this transition, remember the importance of self-reflection on the highlights and accomplishments of this school year. Remember always to be cognizant of self-care.  Reading is therapeutic, a great way to balance the pressures and provide a much-needed break to reset and regroup as you look forward.  Making yourself and your well-being a priority is key, it directly impacts how you cope and manage your responsibilities and workload. Taking a break to unplug, enjoying time to think without a screen in front of you is empowering and has a positive impact on your mental health. Mental Health Awareness Month, observed in May in the United States, is dedicated to raising awareness and understanding of mental health issues, advocating for the importance of mental health care, and reducing the shame surrounding mental illness.

We are taking this opportunity to reflect and understand ourselves better in observance of Mental Health Awareness Month. By increasing awareness, we promote understanding, advocate for support and resources, and reduce stigma. Mental Health Awareness Month aims to educate the public about mental health conditions, their prevalence, symptoms, and available treatments. The more we talk about it, the more we realize we are all impacted, and more importantly, we are never alone. Your guidance department is available, so check in with your counselors and inquire about their resources. 

 

Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month

 And this month we celebrate Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month. Our school library is committed to nurturing your cultural understanding.  Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month, celebrated in the United States, is a time to honor the contributions, achievements, and rich cultural heritage of Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Native Hawaiians. The month of May was chosen to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese individuals to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, which was largely built by Chinese immigrant labor. (Https://www.lib.umich.edu/about-us/news/may-asian-american-and-pacific-islander-aapi-heritage-month)

The celebration aims to raise awareness of the diverse cultures, histories, and experiences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and to recognize their vital role in shaping American history as well as American society and culture. It's an opportunity to highlight their accomplishments in various fields, such as the arts, literature, science, politics, business, and more, while also acknowledging the challenges and obstacles they have faced and continue to face.

Read, Relax, Reconnect -  Your library is open from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm Monday- Friday.  

Mrs. Abraham

"Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love."  - Lao Tzu.

Happy April Hillers!  

True to New England weather, we have hopefully endured our last snowstorm of the school year. Inclement weather is more tolerable when curled up with a good book!

There are lots of exciting things happening at the H.H.S. Library. Mr. Thurnam and I have been working hard to update our collection and inventory of books to make room for more current and relevant sections. We greatly appreciate those who have submitted their recommendations of the books you wish to see in YOUR library. Your input is invaluable and has guided our decisions. We placed a large order and are looking forward to the new books arriving at the end of the month. You can always submit your suggestions on our website or email me. 

 

National Poetry Month

In 1996, the Academy of American Poets designated April as the National Poetry Month to enhance our appreciation and enjoyment of poetry.  This annual celebration encourages us to take some time to deepen our understanding of poetry and what the poet's creation invokes in us on a personal level. We look for meaning in poems that is relevant to us and we often quote our favorite lines from a poem to express a thought, idea, or an emotion we want to share with someone else.  Check out our display and just maybe you will discover a new favorite poet or poem! (Click here for more info: https://poets.org/national-poetry-month)

National Library Week 2024 is April 7 - 13

Since 1958, the American Library Association has celebrated libraries nationwide every April. This annual tradition allows us to honor the invaluable contributions of our nation's libraries while advocating for increased library use and support. In honor of Library Week, in addition to our High School Library, please visit Hopkinton Public Library and see what fantastic events, programs, and books they offer. (Click here for more info: https://hopkintonlibrary.org/) 

D.E.A.R. Day is April 12. 

I'm sure you remember from your younger days, "Drop Everything And Read," when we collectively stopped what we were in the middle of and quietly read together. On April 12, find some time during your study block or at home to take a break from your hectic life, reset, regroup, and read just for the sheer joy of it. Let's make this a memorable reading experience together!
 

Reconnect, Read, Relax, or Research.

 Your library is open from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm Monday- Friday.  

Mrs. Abraham

"Change sings where?  There!  Inside me.
Because I'm the change I want to see.
As I grow, it grows like seeds.
I am just what the world needs.
I'm the voice where freedom rings.
You're the love your bright heart brings.
We are the wave starting to spring.
For we are the change we sing."

                                                                                                               - AMANDA GORMAN, American Poet and Activist

Dear Hillers - 

The days are longer, the temperature is warmer, and spring is here.  During the month of March, the Hopkinton High School library focused on the following initiatives: National Women's History Month, Read Across America Day, and Freedom of Information Day (FOI)

Women's History Month

Women's History Month is dedicated to learning about and celebrating the profound impacts and triumphs accomplished by outstanding women in history. We witness how they overcame diversity, and made valuable contributions to society in spite of being marginalized and disregarded. Look for our display of books highlighting their success.

-->. Or log onto SORA and check on books curated for Women's History Month.  

--> Check out a paper, audiobook, or ebook and become inspired!!

 

 Read Across America Day

Incorporated on March 2nd, 1998. NEA (National Education Association) started this program to promote and encourage reading at all levels. What are some things you can do in honor of RAA Day besides picking up a good book? Think of unique ways to start book sharing with your family and friends.  Check out books from your High School library or see what is available at Boston Public Library.  You can explore the SORA reading app provided to you by HHS. You can also reread a book you read before and see if you pick up different meanings or interpretations on the second read. Expand your reading horizons and select a book of a different genre you do not typically choose to read, 

 

NEA  posted a calendar of themes 2023-2024 Read Across America Calendar | NEA
to keep you motivated and energized with new reading topics you may want to explore throughout the year.

Freedom of Information Day

On March 16^th James Madison's birthday is honored by celebrating Freedom of Information (FOI) Day. James Madison is esteemed as the Father of the Constitution' and the leading proponent of transparency in politics.

The American Library Association (ALA) honors individuals or groups who have championed, defended, and promoted public access to government information and the public's right to know. Every year in celebration of Freedom of Information Day the following recognitions are awarded: James Madison Award and the Eileen Cooke State & Local Madison Award,

How particularly appropriate for the library to celebrate this important day because it is at the essence of everything we stand for, free access to information. Let's take advantage of the library's extraordinary wealth of information and browse the wide rand of literature, magazines, and research databases. And it is free, on the house!

 Reconnect, Read, Relax, or Research.

 Your library is open from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm Monday - Friday.  

Mrs. Abraham

 "Technique and ability alone do not get you to the top; it is the willpower that is most important."

— Junko Tabei, Japanese mountaineer and the first woman to reach the summit of Mt. Everest

Dear Hillers,

We hope this newsletter finds you well and ready for exciting updates from your High School Library. This semester we would like to share some new initiatives to enhance your library experience.

Black History Month:

Black History Month is a time for reflection, appreciation, and recognition of the rich contributions made by individuals throughout our American history. On display you will find books by Black authors and historical figures who have made major accomplishments to educate and elevate our lives. You will find information you may already know as well as documentation you may not be aware of and will be enriched for knowing. You will be able to learn more about the life journeys of these distinguished individuals. There is a display of books depicting the experiences and accomplishments of Black authors and historical figures.

Weeding Books for a Fresh Collection:

In our commitment to provide a relevant and engaging collection, we have undertaken a weeding process in the library. This involves assessing and removing outdated or less-used materials to make room for new and more relevant additions. We want to help create a dynamic and vibrant environment for all knowledge seekers. Please be sure to log onto our HHS Library website and suggest books you would recommend be added to our collection.  

Introducing Sora - Your Gateway to Digital Reading:

We are excited to announce the launch of Sora, a cutting-edge digital reading platform allowing you to access a wide range of e-books and audiobooks anytime, anywhere. Sora provides a seamless reading experience and is compatible with various devices, making it easier to enjoy literature on the go. Download the Sora app, select our school, and explore the virtual shelves!

Reinstating Databases for Academic Excellence:

To support your research needs, we reinstated our comprehensive database access. Whether you're working on a project, composing an essay or simply curious about a particular topic, our databases offer a wealth of reliable and up-to-date information. Visit the library or access online to enhance your academic pursuits.

 Reconnect, Read, Relax, or Research.

That is what we are here for! Your library is open from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm Monday - Friday.  

We are here to support your academic pursuits as well as your recreational reading needs. Please feel free to contact us for any help you need or to offer your feedback on how we can continue improving our services and expanding our collection.
Any Questions? We are here to answer them. Come visit the library.  

Mrs. Abraham

"My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion,

some compassion, some humor, and some style.”

                                                                                   ~ Maya Angelou