Connections - Issue 136

How Monmia Primary School refurbished its library

In this issue of Connections, we look at how well designed library spaces can strengthen school communities. Principal Lucia Vorpasso and architect Christopher Peck share insights from a library refurbishment that supports curiosity, comfort and a culture of reading.

Behind the spotlight: designing new library spaces

Following on from the article on Monmia Primary School’s library renewal, architect Christopher Peck shares how thoughtful design can turn any library into a space that strengthens learning, connection and community.

SCIS: News for subscribers

SCIS Product Manager Anthony Shaw reflects on how school library spaces have evolved from quiet, rules bound rooms to welcoming environments that support reading, wellbeing and a sense of belonging, highlighting the powerful role libraries play in students’ school lives.

Setting yourself up for success in Term 1 as a teacher librarian

This article focuses on the teacher librarians who activate library spaces, and how Term 1 can be used to build visibility, collaboration and momentum for the year ahead.

AI and the lone librarian: how artificial intelligence can be your collaborative partner

Library spaces rely heavily on the people who run them, and for many that means working solo. This article explores how AI tools can step in as a quiet collaborator, helping you manage your space, plan programs and reclaim valuable time.

Library love letters

This article introduces the Letters to the Editor section and invites readers to share their reflections, opinions and celebrations about school libraries and the issues that matter to them.

Educational Lending Right

This article explores how the Educational Lending Right program works and why school library participation matters for supporting Australian creators.

New websites and apps

This article introduces a selection of newly catalogued free websites and apps that can be added to school library catalogues using SCIS records.

New and revised SCIS subject headings

The following changes to SCIS Subject Headings List were approved by the SCIS Standards Committee November 2024 – October 2025. Please see Connections online for further change details, including references and full revisions.

The last word

This regular article brings you school library news, research and resources to add to your professional reading list.