Library Media

Library Media and Textbook Services

Library Media and Textbooks Services supports teaching and learning across all USD 259 schools. We provide instructional support for library staff, library books, textbooks, teacher resources, curriculum materials, technology support, and management of district learning resources. Our goal is to ensure students and staff have the tools, materials and support they need to succeed.

Developing Life-Long Readers
School libraries are places where students develop a love of reading, learning and discovery. Through programs such as Battle of the Books, the William Allen White Award, and other building-based reading initiatives, library staff challenge students to explore new ideas and engage with great literature.

Digital Resources
Through our partnership with The Wichita Public Library, USD 259 students have access to a wide range of digital resources for both academic support and personal entertainment. In addition, students can also take advantage of the Kansas State Library eCard, a free digital library card available to all Kansas residents. The eCard provides access to thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, research databases, online learning tools, and other digital resources from libraries across the state.

Both of these amazing resources support classroom learning, career explorations, or reading for enjoyment, connecting learners of all ages with valuable resources anytime, anywhere.

Teaching & Learning
Beyond promoting reading, our librarians are educators who teach information literacy, research skills, digital citizenship and criticail thinking through engageing, standards-based lessons. They help students learn how to find, evaluate, and use information effectively in an ever-changing world.

For library-specific information, including checkout times and library policies, please visit the school website or contact library staff.

Explore our resources below to learn more about the services, programs, and materials available to support you and your student.

📬 Have a Question?

Christy Aberg, MLS
Supervisor
Library Media & Textbook Services
📧 caberg@wichitapublicschools.org

Library Media Resources

Have You Explored Destiny—Your Child’s School Library Online?

Have You Explored the State Library of Kansas with Your Child?

The State Library of Kansas offers free access to research tools, e-books, audiobooks, and online courses for students and families.

It’s a great way for students to learn, complete homework, and explore new topics—and for parents to find tips and fun activities.

Click the linked picture to start exploring!

Link to Elementary School Student Research

Link to Middle School and High School Student Research

Have You Used the Wichita Public Library to Support Your Child’s Learning?

The Wichita Public Library offers free access to books, e-books, homework help, research tools, and educational videos—online and at seven locations across the city.

Students can build research skills, find reliable info for school projects, and discover new books. Parents can explore resources to support learning and find fun family activities.

Click the link for webpages dedicated to kids and teens.

Wichita Public Library e-card – Thanks to a partnership with USD 259, students get a free WPL e-card! It gives them access to e-books, research databases, and other digital resources.

👉 Click here for details about the student e-card

What Is Battle of the Books All About?

Battle of the Books is a fun reading competition for USD 259 students!

Elementary (Grades 3–5): Students read from a list of 64 books and form teams to compete in January.
Middle School (Grades 6–8): Students read 24 books and compete in April.

Kids answer questions about characters, settings, and authors—and elementary students also give a short book talk. It’s a great way to build reading skills and teamwork!

Click here for a list of elementary & middle school Battle of The Book Lists.

What Is the William Allen White Book Award?

Established in 1952, the William Allen White Children's Book Award is the oldest statewide children's book award in the U.S. Named after Kansas author and editor William Allen White, it celebrates great books—chosen by kids themselves! Students read at least two books from their list to vote for their favorite. It’s a fun way to explore new stories, talk about books with friends, and build a love of reading. Check out the lists below!

Each year, students across Kansas read from two nominee lists. Click on the links to access the lists:

Click the link to the 3^rd,4^th, and 5^th Grade Book Nominee Summaries and Book Trailers

Click the link to the 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th Grade Book Nominee Summaries and Book Trailers

What Is the Bill Martin Jr. Picture Book Award?

This award celebrates amazing picture books and helps spark a love of reading in young Kansas students. Named after Bill Martin Jr., author of Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?, it highlights stories with rich illustrations and engaging storytelling.

Each year, a list of nominated books is shared so children can explore and enjoy high-quality literature. While there’s no voting process, the award is a great way to introduce kids to wonderful books and build a lifelong love of reading.

Click this link to see a list of the 2027 Bill Martin Jr. Picture Book Award Nominees

How Are Library Materials Selected in USD 259?

USD 259 Board of Education Policy 6431 outlines the guidelines used when selecting materials for school libraries across the district. This policy ensures that resources support student learning and reflect the educational goals of Wichita Public Schools.

It also provides a clear process for families and community members who wish to share concerns about specific library materials.