School libraries are usually the domain of studious pupils, cramming their brains with information in preparation for exams or assessments.
More recently, Logan Park High School head of drama Sarah Spicer has joined them, reading as much American literature as possible, in preparation for her trip to the United States on a prestigious Embassy Scholarship.
Ms Spicer is the only New Zealander to be selected to participate in the 2016 Study of the United States Institute (SUSI) on contemporary American literature.
The study looks at contemporary American writers and writing in a variety of genres, and investigates how the themes explored in those works reflect larger currents within contemporary American society and culture.
During the study seminars, lectures and discussions will address broad themes, including the transition from modernism to postmodernism; questions of race, history and identity; and cultural scripting and rescripting.
In investigating these topics, Ms Spicer will be exposed not only to the present diversity of the American literary landscape, but to writers who represent a departure from that tradition and are establishing new directions for American literature.
"I'm doing a lot of reading at the moment. It's really interesting to be back in that sort of frame of mind.''
Ms Spicer said the SUSI programme was a highly competitive and prestigious programme, with a thorough and demanding application process.
Many New Zealand applicants submitted a written application form, which included education, career achievements and essays.
The United States consulate selected and interviewed the top applicants, passing on their applications to the Department of State based in Washington DC.
She was one of only 20 applicants from around the world selected for the SUSI.
"I'm a bit overwhelmed actually, because I didn't think I would get chosen. I was up against university professors and lecturers from all around the world.
"I'm over the moon to be going. It's very prestigious.''
The programme would be hosted by the University of Louisville from June 10 to July 23, and would include trips to Indiana University (Bloomington), Los Angeles and Washington DC.
She hoped her study would help improve curricula and the quality of teaching about the United States, Mrs Spicer said.
"I hope to bring back a greater understanding of American contemporary literature. Our students study a number of texts in this category, so bringing back a greater understanding of that will be very beneficial,'' she said.
