Elmwood Elementary School Library

The Elmwood Elementary School Library begins a student's introduction to library services, including the use of technology and research databases.

Introducing Sora, the Student Reading App

The most recent addition to our library resources is Sora, a free reading service that provides access to digital books.

Why have we added Sora? The collection of titles in Sora is an extension of District 401’s physical library, but this collection is in an app with 24/7 access to e-books and audiobooks.

The Sora app makes it convenient for students to check out titles at home, on the weekends or during school breaks. And there's no worry about misplacing a book or running up late fees, because these digital titles automatically return at the end of the lending period.

Sora can help students of all ages read more and improve comprehension. Struggling or reluctant readers, learning-challenged readers, second-language learners and gifted readers alike can all benefit from this service. The benefits include:

  • Enriching vocabulary and improving comprehension and pronunciation
  • Introducing students to books above their reading level
  • Teaching critical listening
  • Helping busy kids find time to read
  • Incentivizing reading with fun avatars and achievements

Accessing Sora

To access Sora, download the free Sora app from the App Store or the Google Play Store, or visit meet.soraapp.com.

Then, using your student school email address, you will be all set to borrow e-books and audiobooks on your computer, tablet or smartphone.

To directly access District 401's Sora account, please click here:

Sora login

How Elmwood Library Helps Students

Our broad selection of picture books helps early learners develop their reading skills through context and exposure to engaging stories. Our reading programs bolster their confidence and support their efforts to become proficient readers and lifelong learners.

More advanced readers have access to award-winning series and the most popular fiction stories in the market today.

Classes use our computer labs and laptops. By learning how to research topics using the World Book database and other online resources, students form the fundamental research skills needed for academic success in middle and high school.

To Find a Title or Resource

If you are looking for a book or other resource in our library, please use this link:

If you want to explore other school libraries in our District, please use this link:

Still have questions?

Or just stop by the library whenever you need help!

Checkout Policy

Students are permitted to check out two books or other library items at a time.

Lost Material Policy

If library material is lost, parents will be charged according to the following fee schedule:

  • Juvenile Paperback
  • Juvenile Hardcover
  • Young Adult Fiction Paperback
  • Young Adult Fiction Hardcover
  • Young Adult Nonfiction Paperback
  • Young Adult Nonfiction Hardcover
  • Magazine
  • Reference

$10.00
$20.00
$10.00
$20.00
$20.00
$30.00
$3.00
Actual replacement cost

Partnership with EP Public Library

District 401 also works with the Elmwood Park Public Library to ensure that our students have access to a full range of resources.

For more information, please visit our Digital Resources at EP Public Library page.

District 401's Policy on Library Services

Elmwood's library operations are governed by District 401's policy on library media programs, which can be found in Section 6:230 of the Board of Education's District Policy Manual:  

The Superintendent or designee shall manage the District's library media program to comply with (1) State law and Illinois State Board of Education rule and (2) the following standards:

  1. The program includes an organized collection of resources available to students and staff to supplement classroom instruction, foster reading for pleasure, enhance information literacy, and support research, as appropriate to students of all abilities in the grade levels served.
  2. Financial resources for the program's resources and supplies are allocated to meet students' needs.
  3. Students in all grades served have equitable access to library media resources.
  4. The advice of an individual who is qualified according to ISBE rule is sought regarding the overall direction of the program, including the selection and organization of materials, provision of instruction in information and technology literacy, and structuring the work of library paraprofessionals.
  5. Staff members are invited to recommend additions to the collection.
  6. Students may freely select resource center materials as well as receive guided selection of materials appropriate to specific, planned learning experiences.

For a searchable version of the complete District Policy Manual, click here.