• Library FAQs

    What are the Library’s hours?

    The Heights High School Library is open Monday - Thursday from 8:00 am until 4:30 pm; Friday from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm.

    What resources does the Library have for students?

    The Library three specific areas to use and charge laptops, several outlets scattered throughout, two printers for your printing needs, a student office area with officey-type supplies; in addition to over 20 journals and magazines, as well as a vibrant non-fiction and fiction book collection. The Library has access to the HISD Library Services online databases and digital resources; as well as, the Houston Library online databases and print collections through a partnership with HPL and HISD, too!

    How can I use the library during the school day?

    The library is available to all students and faculty before, during and after school without a hall pass. During class, as well as lunch, students must have a hall pass and sign in on the library sign in form located at the circulation desk.

    Remember no food in the library, please! Keep your area clean by throwing away trash in a nearby trash can or in the library recycling bin.

    Check the main library door for a change in library hours.

    How do teachers reserve the library?

    Teachers must check the library calendar through the school’s website or on the HUB. After checking for availability, request a day and period by emailing the librarian with the following information a week in advance:

    1.    Content area / unit of study

    2.    Materials (print / electronic) needed

    3.    Equipment (Smart Board, projector, etc.)

    4.    Day(s) and class period(s)

    5.    Number of students

    6.    Librarian support need (library lesson)

    Substitutes may not bring classes to the library. Teachers must remain with their students and are responsible for maintaining a learning environment while in the library.

    Can student groups (like the German Club, Book Club) reserve the Library for their meetings?

    Yes.  Ask the Librarian's permission at least one week in advance.  Remember that no food or sugary drinks can be consumed in the Library.

    How do students find books in the library?

    My favorite method of finding a book is by browsing the fiction area for an attractive title. 

    The library's online catalog is Destiny. Destiny is the library automation system; it can be accessed through the tab “Find a Book” on the Library page or through the HUB through Heights HS Library - "Find a Book". 

    How many items may I check out at once?

    You may have as many items as you wish checked out at one time; however, 2 - 4 items are recommended at one time, as the check out time-frame is only two weeks.

    Can I check out magazines?

    Yes, all back issues of our magazines can be checked out. You may keep magazines for one week. Current issues may not be checked out.

    Can I check out videos? Audiobooks? DVDs?

    Yes. Videos and DVDs may be checked overnight. Audiobooks may be kept for one week.

    How much money will I owe if I return my books late?

    Nothing! There is not a fine, or late fee, for returning a book after its due date. However, if you lose or damage a book, that's another story! 

    What happens if I lose a book?

    You are responsible for paying the price to replace the book or you may buy the book yourself to replace the lost item. The book must be identical, i.e. hardcover = hardcover, the book must be new and so on.

    Do I need to have my student id card with me if I want to check out books?

    Yes, you must have your student id card with you at all times to be able to check out materials from the library.

    Can I renew a book?

    Yes, you can renew a book or magazine if no one else has placed a hold on that item.

    Do I need my student id card to return books?

    No, you do not. The book drop is at the front of the circulation desk.

    May I print my paper?

    Sure, thing! Printing is free. Save your document as a .pdf file on a flash drive and you can print easily. You can also connect your laptop directly to the library printer.

    Do you have any color printers?

    Yes, but you must first ask one of the librarians and we print the document for you. The cost for a color copy is .25¢ per page.

    Can I use the library databases from my home computer?

    Most of the library databases have remote passwords for use at home. Get a list of these from your librarian. Access these resources via the HISD Digital Resources page found under Library or through the HUB under Digital Resources.

    May I use the library computers to check my email?

    Yes, students should regularly check their school email account for notices, events, and communications from their teachers.

    What computer programs does the library have?

    All library computers have a full range of productivity and design software that is used in the various classes.