Creating Enthusiastic Young Readers

I have many wonderful memories of ‘back-to-school’ nights in the libraries where I worked as Teacher-Librarian. After the school doors opened, I’d hear squeals, then the pitter-patter of feet rushing down the hall. Elementary students dashed into the library and ran to their favorite sections, looking at the new signage and posters, figurines, puzzles, and fidgets that awaited them. Tales of summer break filled the room, as did the students’ plans for the new school year. And of course, they asked me and the other librarians, Can I check a book out right now?

Appealing environment

My preparation for the school year began long before back-to-school night, of course. Weeks before, we had finalized decisions about the year’s library program and which books to focus on.

One August, I had a long list of clerical tasks to do (the ones that teachers get reminded of upon returning to work). But I knew students were due to arrive soon, and made it a priority to prepare the library so that it would welcome students back ‘with open arms.’

My first job was preparing the learning space. I dusted off the counters and windowsills and wiped out the cobwebs that had accumulated over the summer.

Next, I focused on setting up the room to be highly appealing for young readers. The storybook characters (a.k.a. stuffies) were unpacked and placed on shelves. New books went on display, easily reachable by little hands. I set out fresh bookmarks and coloring pages, and lined the exit doors with back-to-school jokes and riddles. I put new decorations on the windows and walls, reminding students that this was a safe space for them – and that the love of reading and curiosity abounded all around.

Encouraging students

Last year, I started a new job in another state, and I’m enjoying the challenge of building readership among junior and senior high school students. Essentially, however, my role hasn’t changed: I support learners so they feel comfortable, respected, and encouraged to explore the world.

Teacher-Librarians give students the opportunity to take books and information from their schools into other environments, such as into their homes to share with families. I am fortunate to work in a place where students make these connections, between their minds and the outside world.