Library
Welcome to the Library at Harris Boys’ Academy East Dulwich.
Our school library is a vibrant and much-loved hub at the heart of Harris Boys’ Academy East Dulwich. Designed as a calm and welcoming space, it supports reading, study, chess, and quiet reflection – offering something for every student.
The library is designed to look like an inviting bookshop, with front-facing books, table displays, and clear signage to help students explore with ease. Studies show that boys who read do better. We’re here to make that happen.
The library is open at break and lunchtimes (on a rota system) and after school (open to all students). For further information, contact Mrs Edwards, our dedicated librarian, on s.edwards@harrisdulwichboys.org.uk.
Activities and competitions
We run regular competitions and reading activities to nurture a lifelong love of books. Students can also enjoy chess, join our Student Librarian programme, or volunteer through the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. And we’re excited to launch new book clubs in the 2025-26 academic year – stay tuned!
A space for every reader
We champion reading for pleasure and offer personalised support to help each student discover books they’ll love. With over 6,000 books and magazines, our collection is thoughtfully curated to reflect boys’ interests and support the curriculum.
- Fiction: From fantasy and thrillers to historical fiction, humour, and poetry, we stock a wide range of genres and include the most popular contemporary authors for ages 11–16.
- Non-fiction: Our shelves are rich in topics like sport, maths, and history, and we also provide books that address important life topics such as mental health, identity, bereavement, and online safety.
- Dyslexia-friendly: We proudly stock titles from Barrington Stoke, a specialist publisher for dyslexia-friendly books.
- Languages: We offer a small but growing selection of books in Spanish, Polish, and Arabic, along with a variety of language dictionaries.
- Manga: We offer a selection of Manga books for students to read in the library. We make sure that Manga fans sample other genres too.
Study, revise, and reflect
Our library is a perfect place to study and reflect.
- Our unique Silent Library sessions offer a completely quiet environment for students who thrive in calm spaces - available by invitation with a Silent Library Pass.
- Homework Club runs four days a week after school.
- 24 computers are available for homework and research.
- Revision support includes a pre-bookable desk system for Years 10 and 11 at key times of the year.
Borrowing books
Students may borrow up to two books for three weeks. Most books are available to borrow; exceptions are listed in our Guide to Borrowing Books for Parents.
Parents are asked to help ensure books are returned in good condition. Lost or damaged books may require a contribution toward replacement.
Get involved
We warmly invite parents to support the library by:
- Encouraging reading at home
- Helping boys return their books on time
- Donating books
- Fundraising
- Sharing ideas to shape the library’s future