Overview

SCHOOL LIBRARY

Our school library committee aims to promote and cultivate a positive disposition towards books and support students in their learning. Our activities aim to help students develop a lifelong habit of reading for enjoyment. We aim to continue our efforts to enthuse and nurture a love of reading in all our students.

We seek to achieve this by
1) conducting reading programmes and
2) providing inviting and conducive spaces / resources for students to read, collaborate and learn.

Programmes

1. Reading Programme

Getting students to experience the joy of reading is a regular part of the school’s curriculum.

Two periods (one for English, one for Mother Tongue) are set aside each week for our reading programme. Students enjoy a range of activities during these periods. These include engaging read alouds, storytelling and book recommendations. In alternative weeks, students are brought to the library to borrow books.

Chinese Lesson Sharing

Malay Lesson Sharing

Tamil Lesson Sharing

Storytelling is brought to life with the use of puppets, pop-up books and Kamishibai (i.e., story cards). Students are given opportunities to do book talks and share their reads with their classmates too.

Through reading circles, students have opportunities to engage in rich discussions about their reads with their peers as well. With the use of critical literacy books, students are also encouraged to think critically about what they read. In addition, students also learn more about current affairs by reading and viewing newspapers. Students’ complete reflections in the I Love Reading booklets.

2. Assembly Programmes

Students enjoy various reading assembly programmes aimed at nurturing a love of reading in them. These include Book Buzzes (held in collaboration with the National Library Board (NLB)) and book talks by local authors. Videos of staff recommending books are broadcasted during pre-assembly as well.

3. Come as a Book Character Day

On 24 April, the school came alive in a vibrant celebration of imagination and creativity as students participated in our much anticipated Come as a Book Character Day, themed “Genres Come Alive.” From beloved classic figures to contemporary heroes, students arrived dressed as their favourite literary characters, transforming the school into a colourful tapestry that reflected the richness and diversity of stories. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as students eagerly shared about their characters, bringing narratives to life through their voices and expressions.

Book characters came alive as both staff and students stepped into the shoes of their favourite literary figures

A key highlight of the celebration was the exploration of literary genres. Through peer sharing and thoughtfully designed activities, students were introduced to a wide range of genres, including fantasy, adventure, mystery, folklore and non-fiction. These experiences deepened their understanding of genre characteristics and themes, while nurturing a genuine curiosity about the world of books.

Our talented teacher-actors, who truly brought their characters to life!

Throughout the week, students engaged in interactive activities such as storytelling sessions led by the Principal, Vice-Principals and parent volunteers, as well as hands-on book-making experiences in the Maker’s Space. These platforms provided meaningful opportunities for students to express their ideas, think creatively and collaborate with their peers. In the process, they developed essential communication, collaboration, adaptability and social awareness.

Beyond the festivities, the event played a significant role in cultivating a sustained love for reading. Students demonstrated enthusiasm in discussing stories, making connections across texts and embracing diverse perspectives. The immersive nature of the activities encouraged them to step into different roles and viewpoints, strengthening their adaptability and confidence as learners.

Students dressed as the book characters

Come as a Book Character Day was more than a celebration - it was a powerful reminder of how stories can inspire, connect and shape young minds. It underscored the school’s commitment to nurturing reflective, curious and future-ready learners through meaningful and engaging literacy experiences.

Resources

School library

Our school library is an inviting and conducive space for students to read, collaborate and learn. It has a modern 21st century look to attract students and caters to their evolving needs. Besides shelves that are stocked with a wide range of books to cater to our students’ interests, the library has four distinct zones for different purposes:

1) Imagination Room – a Makers’ Space for both staff and students to work on projects and carry out generative discussions
2) Thinkers’ Space – a cosy space for reading
3) Reading Nook – a cosy space for younger learners to read
4) Digital Corner – digital learning devices available for learners to explore e-books, audio books and the Internet

Book Stop

The Book Stop was created to bring a snippet of the library to the canteen. This eye-catching mini library allows students to easily pick up a book during their recesses/lunch.

Useful Links

1. NLB Overdrive (https://nlb.overdrive.com/)

2. Storyline Online (https://www.storylineonline.net/)
Enjoy videos of children’s books read aloud alongside creatively produced illustrations at Storyline Online. 

3. School eResource Repository (SERR)
https://schoolibrary.moe.edu.sg/eresourcespri/cgi-bin/spydus.exe/MSGTRN/WPAC/HOME
The School eResource Repository (SERR) is a virtual school library. It aims to promote recreational reading as well as support learning for students across various subject areas. The repository provides easy access to online resources.

4. Bendemeer Primary School Library OPAC (Online Public Access Catalogue
https://schoolibrary.moe.edu.sg/bendemeerpri Perform a search of books and resources available in the school library at this website.

5. NLB discoveReads (Children & Teens Services): 
https://childrenandteens.nlb.gov.sg/
Access storytelling videos,  e-books, book recommendations and other reading-related resources at NLB discoveReads. You will need an account to borrow e-books. Students may sign up for an account, with their parent's Singpass, here.

6. Unite for Literacy: https://www.uniteforliteracy.com/
Enjoy simple books at Unite for Literacy.

7. Audible: stories.audible.com/discovery
Enjoy free (for a limited time) audio books at Audible.

8. National Geographic Kids: https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/

9. Science News for Students: https://www.sciencenewsforstudents.org/