Collection
The Library's current collection of books numbers over 20,000. Reference books are housed on the upper level of the Library while circulating books are housed on the lower level. A separate collection of books dedicated to the study of China is housed in the Zeidman Family Center for Chinese Studies on the lower level.
A video collection is located in the Librarian's Office. All titles are cataloged in the Library Catalog. Ask a Library staff member for help in locating a video you need.
A separate collection of books by Sidwell alumni and teachers is located in a cabinet on the upper level. These books are noted in the Library Catalog with the subject heading "Sidwell author."
Loan Periods
Books may be checked out for three weeks at a time. Reference books may be checked out for one period, overnight or for the weekend.
Library Catalog
The Library Catalog is available on the Internet. The catalog contains the collections of all three divisional libraries (Lower, Middle and Upper Schools). Materials at one of the other divisions may be borrowed.
Periodicals
The Library subscribes to over fifty magazines and journals. Current issues of the more popular titles are shelved on the upper level and do not circulate. Back issues in print are kept in the stacks on the Library's lower level.
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The Library subscribes to many online databases with periodicals in full text. This service is available from all Sidwell computers and at home when accessed with a special user name and password. Refer to the left side of this page and click on "Off-campus Access" for instructions on accessing the information from home.
From time to time, we will offer other databases on a trial basis. Please ask the Library staff if there are currently any trial databases available for use.
Computers and Online Resources
The library has 8 student computers on the main floor, 18 laptop computers in the Library's Computer Lab on the upper level, and 4 computers downstairs. All of the Library's workstations are connected to the Internet.
In addition, the Library subscribes to a number of online resources.
Media Production
The Library has the following equipment for student and faculty use
- Photocopier for student use, free of charge
- Photocopier for Faculty and Staff use
- Laminator
- Digital video camcorder
- Digital still camera
- Scanner