Library Matters
Pakenham Secondary College
How we're keeping the love of reading alive at PSC
We all know that reading is one of the most important skills a young person can develop, but it’s so much more than just a way to boost academic performance. Reading builds vocabulary, strengthens critical thinking, enhances emotional intelligence and is even proven to reduce stress and improve sleep. It’s also a great way to relax and enjoy some quiet time.
This year, we’ve been spreading the word that reading is fun and not just something you do inside the classroom. With everything students have going on - homework, sport, part-time jobs and screen time, reading for enjoyment can sometimes be pushed aside. So, we introduced two fantastic reading challenges to help keep students excited about reading:
The Victorian Premiers’ Reading Challenge
The Rip Roaring Reading Challenge
Both challenges have been running for a few months and are now heading into the final stretch, there are just 30 days left before they wrap up on 1st September! Students in Years 7–10 have been reading all kinds of things - paper books, ebooks, even stories on their phones and earning rewards along the way.
Some of the rewards include:
A pizza party
Book prizes
House points
Stickers
And most importantly - a stronger reading habit!
But these challenges aren’t just about reaching a number. They’re about helping students enjoy reading, discover books that interest them and have fun doing it. Whether you're into fantasy, mystery, real-life stories or graphic novels, there’s something for everyone.
To all the students who’ve been taking part - great job! There’s still time to read more or try something new. Every book you read is helping you grow and giving you something valuable for the future.
Useful Library Links
Connected Libraries:
BUNJIL/CRANBOURNE/ENDEAVOUR HILLS/HAMPTON PARK/CRANBOURNE WEST
Myli - My Library Community
PAKENHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY
Cnr John Street & Henry Street, Pakenham
Opening hours:
Monday – Thursday 9:00-8:00
Friday 9:00-9:00
Saturday 10:00-4:00
Sunday 1:00-4:00
LIBRARY CATALOGUE
FREE FOOD FRIDAY AT PAKENHAM LIBRARY
ENGLISH CONVERSATION GROUP
COMMUNITY EVENTS AT PAKENHAM LIBRARY
SORA Reading App Instructions
Here are some instructions on how to install the SORA Reading App.
“You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.” Dr Seuss
Enjoy some sensational spring reading by logging into SORA, our library’s fantastic eBook and audio book Reading App. We are sure you will find a book that grabs you amongst the hundreds of books included in the extensive range.
Install the SORA app on your phone or computer using your Compass Username (For example: GARA001). The password is simply: password. Please read below for the instructions.
The default setting will only allow books to download when you are connected to Wi-Fi so it will not gobble up your data. See how you go.
Sora Install Instructions
- Install the Sora app from the Apple App Store of Google Play store, go to soraapp.com
2. Click 'Find my school'
3. Click 'No, I’ll search for my school’
4. Type in ‘Pakenham Secondary College’ and click ‘This is my school’
5. From the drop-down menu, scroll until you find ‘Pakenham Secondary College’
6. Sign in with you Student Code (ie. ABC0123), and your password is ‘password’
