The Dulwich Despatch The Despatch is the Lower School newspaper, founded in the Library in 2000 and still going strong. It is published twice a year with contributions from pupils and edited by the Chandler Librarian. The Wodehouse Library The main school library provides access to more than 20,000 books, 2,000 DVDs and CDs, almost 100 periodicals and an ever increasing number of electronic resources to support the academic work of boys and to provide them with a diverse range of fiction to challenge, stimulate and enjoy. The library also gives pupils opportunities to learn outside of the classroom with a book group, pupil librarian scheme and author visits. The Word of Mouth Book Group This group for pupils in Years 9-13 meets in the civilized surroundings of the Periodicals Room. Each week there is discussion about the latest books that we have been reading with lively debate about the merits of various authors and series. Author Visits In the past year Alex Wheatle has spoken to pupils in Years 9, 12 and 13 whilst Tom Pollock (OA) ran a writing workshop for Middle School pupils in the Library and then spoke in the Auditorium to pupils in Year 9. Both talks were followed by a long line of pupils queuing to ask further questions and get copies of newly purchased books signed by the author. Pupil Librarians A group of around 25 boys from across all year groups contribute to the organization and operation of the Library by carrying out a wide variety of duties from shelving returned books to cataloguing new stock and decommissioning old books on the online catalogue. Boys gain useful managerial skills and can earn the distinctive Librarian ties as they progress through the hierarchy.
‘Literature offers an escape from reality into a world of fantasy. Being a student librarian allows me to immerse myself with that regularly.’ Arjaan, Year 10
Pupils take part in the CWISL CWIZZ.
The Archives and Fellows’ Library
The importance of the Archive as a resource is felt throughout the College. Lessons based on archival material starts in DUCKS and continue to Year 13. Hands-on lessons and exposure to archival documents gives an added breadth and dimension to the pupils’ learning and they come to recognise the uniqueness of this chance. In more recent years the Archive and Fellows’ Library has played an active role in Free Learning Days and the annual Sixth Form Symposium. Staff are well placed to encourage Remove pupils to use this treasure trove for their Extended Essays. ‘For my Y13 Extended Essay, which explored the foundation of the local Dulwich Picture Gallery, I sifted through invaluable archival material – only available in the College’s Archive. This privilege enabled me to hold the 200-year-old will of the Picture Gallery’s benefactor, Sir Francis Bourgeois.’ Alex, Year 13 There are also many opportunities to help in the Archive, boys volunteer as part of Community Action, or to complete the volunteering element of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
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