Interview with Ms Sivanandan, Our New Librarian

We would like to introduce our new librarian, welcome to DCIS Ms Paula Sivanandan!

Can you please tell us a little bit about your background?

Originally from Edinburgh, I’ve been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to have lived in several exciting cities in Europe, America and Asia, but Singapore remains my favourite. We have two daughters, one in University in the UK and one in Year 13 here in Singapore. 

When did you know that you wanted to become a librarian?

I’ve always been a lover of books, but I rediscovered the magic of libraries when my daughters were young, and we were almost daily visitors to our local public library. I qualified in Library Science from Aberystwyth University, Wales and later Digital Education at The University of Edinburgh. Although I began in public libraries, I was drawn to being a school librarian.  Helping children discover a love of reading is the best job in the world.

When did you first fall in love with books and which book is your all-time favourite?

The first time I read a book all through the night it was Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. I have to admit that I am still a binge reader for a great book, even now. If I had to pick just one book as my all-time favourite it would probably be A Suitable Boy by Vikram Seth. It’s a weighty tale of family drama and friendships set during the unrest of Partition.

How do you find our school so far?

I am absolutely enthralled by the DCIS students; smart, kind and excited to learn. I look forward to seeing them in the library every day.

We are all very excited about our new updated library, what do you think makes this a good library?

The library should be the heart of the school, busy and full of life and learning. However, this can mean that there are often competing demands from different groups. Our new library with collaborative areas, silent-study desks and snug reading spots helps us provide the best library experience for everyone.

Can you please recommend some must-reads for our Upper Primary and Secondary students!

We are adding new titles to the library collection every day, so it is always worth stopping by to check them out. For Upper Primary student, Roald Dahl, Louis Sachar, Michael Morpurgo, and Jacqueline Wilson are perennial favourites, whilst our Secondary students continue to enjoy books by Rick Riordan, Anthony Horowitz and John Green.

If you haven't already, please come by our new library!