A common question teachers ask each other is what’s in your classroom library? Honestly, a classroom library is one of the most rewarding yet stressful parts of the classroom. Many times, this is because there are so many incredible books to pick from! It can be hard to keep up with all the new releases while ensuring that the book offerings are appropriate for students. Thankfully, the tips below will help ensure that your classroom library is current and diverse.
Process of Analyzing Your Classroom Library
Teachers have a never-ending to-do list. Between grading, data analysis, planning, and creating resources, there is never enough time in the day. However, one essential item involves analyzing your classroom library. Now, this does not have to be done weekly or even monthly. A thorough analysis can occur over summer break. Then, teachers can add new books throughout the year. It is crucial to complete this process to offer students updated, diverse selections.
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Diversity is Key
When selecting new classroom library books, diversity is key. Books are a powerful way to teach students about the world. Best of all, children’s literature can take mature or sensitive content and present it to students in an age-appropriate format. For instance, LGBTQ is a massive focus in the world. Thus, implementing books with this focus helps students understand what it means. Likewise, students need to learn about disability awareness. As above, books are an incredible way to raise awareness in age-appropriate ways. Students can learn about different focus areas to be kind, compassionate, and supportive community members.
Tips for Updating the Library Offerings
With how busy teachers are, it can seem complicated to stay on top of updating a classroom library. Luckily, there are tips to help! First, have students help in the weeding out process. As the year starts and you get to know students, find their interests. Then, focus on books that match what students like. While exposing them to other interests is essential, students will feel proud and excited to help. They can see several options and then select the ones they want to read. Honestly, this will help build so much reading excitement!
Second, select books with all different reading levels. Some students will be fluent readers while others will need extra assistance. Thus, books at various levels help every student find something just right for them.
Third, utilize the current International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) selection to help diversity books. They offer incredible suggestions based on different categories. This list is a great way to ensure the classroom library contains much diversity.
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Fourth, select books that are mirrors and windows. For mirrors, students have books that contain stories, characters, and experiences they see themselves. In other words, these are books students build personal connections with. Furthermore, a book that is a mirror allows students to learn about other people’s experiences. While they may not be able to relate, they learn and grow through someone else’s perspective. Ultimately, windows and mirrors allow students to learn about themselves and others living in the world.
To help keep track of book possibilities, check out the Book List form! It is a helpful way to jot down titles in your library or ones you want to check out soon!
When thinking about what’s in your classroom library, there are many aspects to consider. With so many reading levels and topics to include, it can be challenging to pick which books to use. However, remember the importance of exposing students to how incredible books are! Time planning your classroom library will be well spent.
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