Sussex Academy partners with Delaware Division of Libraries

The new school library at Sussex Academy is scheduled for completion this month. When the Sussex Academy Library Committee began planning for the new library, they realized the challenge they faced was opening a brand-new library with no existing collection. To overcome the challenge, they initiated conversation with members of the Delaware Division of Libraries. Together they made arrangements for every Sussex Academy student to receive a Delaware library card.

“It is a great partnership, “ said Jennifer Leonard, Sussex Academy library specialist. “Now all of our students have access to the resources and services provided by our public libraries.”

The new school library is part of the major construction that took place at Sussex Academy over the summer. Renovations were completed in the school lobby and hallways, and a new cafeteria, kitchen, performing arts stage and library were built.

“We are delighted to collaborate with Sussex Academy to put a Delaware library card into the hand of every student. Since childhood literacy is a primary focus of public libraries, it’s a natural partnership. The excitement on the student’s face when they receive their first library card is a heartwarming sight. It’s been a additional pleasure to find out how many students already have a library card,” said Rachel Lynch, assistant county librarian.

Sussex Academy is a public, charter, tuition-free school in Georgetown. While it is currently serving grades 6 to 11, grade 12 will be added in fall 2016. For more information, contact Gina Derrickson at 302-856-3636 or gina.derrickson@saas.k12.de.us.