Library Procedures

Mission

The library at Longfellow Middle is the center of the school both physically and philosophically.  Its main objective is to implement, enhance, and integrate the Fairfax County Public School curriculum and to foster a life-long love of reading. To that end, the Librarians endeavor to provide a variety of resources, services, and materials to support the academic, recreational, and professional needs of all patrons.

Frequently Asked Questions

When may I visit the library?

1.The library opens every school day at 7:10 a.m. You may visit the library between 7:10 a.m. and 7:25 a.m. to check out or return books. Be sure to be on time for homeroom.

2. During class with a pass from your teacher.

3.During lunch with a lunchtime library pass from one of the adults who monitor the cafeteria. When you sign in to the library, be sure to place your lunch pass in the designated basket on the circulation desk.

4. During Lancer Time with your teacher's permission.  No more than 2 students per class should be in the library, and students should return from the library within 10 minutes so additional students can visit the library.  

5. After school for Homework Club. Click HERE to find out more about after school activities. On days that there are no after school activities, the library closes at 2:30 p.m.

*Whenever you come to the library with a pass, you must sign in!

What is the policy for checking out books?

Bring your books to the circulation desk near the main doors of the library. The librarian will ask you to type your student ID number into the pin pad in order to retrieve your library account on the computer. Books are checked out for 3 weeks. Books can be renewed for an additional 3 weeks. Bring books you wish to renew to the library and ask a librarian to renew your books or you can renew your books online through Destiny Discover.

Can we borrow books from other FCPS libraries?

Yes! If we don't have a book that you are eager to read, it's possible that we could borrow that book for you from another FCPS library. This is called an inter-library loan (ILL). In order to do this for you, we will need to know your full name, the title, and author of the book that you are requesting.  When your ILL arrives at LMS, we will send you an email informing you of its availability in the library. Simply come to the library to pick it up. The due date for your ILL (generally 3 weeks as well) will be posted on the cover of your book.

Where do we return books?

All books (including ILLs) must be returned to the book return slot in the circulation desk near the main doors of the library. Please drop books into the slot. Do not place books on top of the circulation desk, on any book carts, on the librarian's desk, etc. That is how books become misplaced.

What happens if I have overdue books or lose a book? Please return your books as soon as you are finished with them. We do not charge overdue fees, but we do expect you to be a responsible Lancer and return your books within 3 weeks or renew your books if you need them longer. If you lose or irreparably damage a book, you will be expected to pay the cost of replacement, which will be provided by a librarian.

Can I use the student printer in the library?

You may print up to 3 pages in black and white free of charge. When sending a job to a copier, you’ll be asked for a PIN. You choose whatever PIN you want. Once you’ve submitted the job from your laptop, you’ll pick it up at the printer by selecting your job and entering the PIN you chose.  Feel free to ask a librarian for help!

 

Can I access online library resources outside of school?

YES!  Click here to access the online card catalog. Click here to access the FCPS online databases and eBooks (e.g., Gale, Britannica, World Book, etc.).