Overview

The Dalton School Libraries are in two locations: at First Program and also at the Middle and High School building. The facilities are state-of-the-art, housing a total book collection of over 57,000 volumes - the largest among New York City independent schools - and a sophisticated online catalog and automation system: SIRSI eLibrary.

The Middle and High School Goldman Libraries were renovated during the summer of 2001. They house approximately 30,000 volumes and include an advanced media facility with rear-view projection and wireless computer capability in addition to a well-equipped media classroom. The Middle School Goldman Library is located on the Mezzanine level above the High School Goldman Library in a bright and highly functional space with an inviting Reading Room. The James R. Hurst Library at First Program, which houses approximately 15,650 volumes, was renovated during the summer of 2004.

The libraries offer a rich and varied program to support all aspects of the school's rigorous curriculum and foster a love of learning. Group and individual instruction and guidance are ongoing. The large book collection is enhanced by rich resources that include access to more than 9,100 e-books; subscriptions to 2 print newspapers, over 100 periodicals, and 42 electronic databases; more than 200 recorded books; over 2,500 videos and DVDs; a music collection of almost 1,000 CDs representative of every genre; and a microfilm/microfiche collection which includes the New York Times from 1851 to 1984.

Audio-visual services are offered through the Library Department and support all facets of school life, from drama presentations and Board meetings to every aspect of classroom activity. The libraries house slide projectors, LCD projectors, VHS and DVD players, tape and CD players, and digital scanning and video editing equipment to support classroom projects.

The Dalton Archives is part of the Dalton School Libraries. It preserves and stores written records and publications, yearbooks, recordings and tapes, photographs, and videos spanning the history of the school from its establishment in 1919.