Yay for Books! A Note from Summitt's wonderful Librarian, Ms. Richey
A big welcome back to the new school year! My name is Denise Richey, and I'm the librarian here at Summitt Elementary. I am so excited to open the library doors and see all our students, from pre-K to 5th grade, filling these halls with stories and discoveries. I believe the library is a source of joy and community, and I'm looking forward to another year of sharing that with your children.
What to Expect at the Library
- Our youngest students (pre-K to 3rd grade) will visit the library weekly. Our time together will be full of selecting books, listening to stories, and engaging in fun lessons that cover everything from digital literacy to cultural celebrations, scientific discoveries, and connections to fine arts.
- Our older students (4th & 5th grade) will be stretching their independence. They’ll have the chance to practice independent check-out and participate in collaborative lessons that support what they're learning in their classrooms.
A Note on Responsibility
All students have the privilege of borrowing books! I want the library to be a place where they learn and practice responsibility, not a place of punishment. Sometimes our younger students might even leave their library book in the classroom to help them with this process.
Here's how our book check-out system works:
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Books are checked out for two weeks.
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If a book is overdue, I'll send a reminder notice home.
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After one month, a missing book is considered lost, and a bill will be sent home. Check-out privileges will be paused at this time until we can make things right.
Please know that I am always willing to work with you and your child regarding lost or damaged books. My goal is to work together, so please reach out to me via email or phone with any questions or concerns at denise.richey@austinisd.org
Volunteering Opportunities
With nearly 800 students and 30 classes a week, I am always so grateful for an extra set of hands! If you are a parent or grandparent who is interested in volunteering, please fill out this form: Summitt Elementary Library Volunteer Interest Form 2025-2026