The Civic Center Secondary School (San Francisco, CA) is one of several San Francisco County Community Schools which provide educational services to students in grades 7-12. The Civic Center Secondary School has participated in the A.R.T. Library Program since 2022.

A.R.T. Library Program Questionnaire gathers insights from librarians and publishers within the Program's distribution network to reconsider and reflect on what it means to make art books public today.

• How would you define the main role the library plays in your community?

The school library provides students with books in multiple languages, STEAM activities, and online resources to support both school research and independent learning.

• How would you define your responsibility as a librarian/teacher?

My responsibilities include getting to know the students, understanding their interests, needs, and learning styles to better support their educational journeys. I also provide relevant resources that support and enrich student learning, ensuring they have access to a diverse range of options. Additionally, I source additional resources, including books, guest speakers, and community partnerships, to enhance the learning experience.

• When was the first time you participated in the A.R.T. Library Program? Do you participate yearly?

We first participated in the Library Program in 2022, and placed multiple orders since.

• What do art books provide that other books might not? Why is it important for your library to make art books available?

Many schools have seen cuts to art, music, theater, and dance programs, and many are closing their libraries as well. All students need access to the arts to foster creativity and engagement.