A classroom library is one of the most important areas in a classroom. Every classroom in every grade should have a classroom library from Pre-K through High School. Many special’s teachers could benefit from a classroom library as well.
Design of a Classroom Library
A classroom library needs to be a place within the physical space of a classroom. At least one bookshelf is a must, but there are numerous other methods for organizing book that can be utilized as well. Depending on the space available, teachers can use some of the following ideas for their classroom library:
- Short bookshelf (at the height of the children so they can see book standing on top of the shelf)
- Egg-crates or other boxes to organize books by level or category
- Strip of gutter (found at a hardware store) nailed to the wall to showcase a few books
- Pocket posters to hold small books, bookmarks, paper and pencils and any other supplies
Teachers should create a nook, whenever possible, that allows not only a collection of books, but a variety of comfortable seating as well. Bean bag chairs and a soft rug are great options for inviting students to settle in for a time of reading. For classrooms where the teacher will read aloud to the students frequently a rocking chair and space for the children to sit on the floor and listen is another great idea if space permits.
Organizing and Showcasing Books in a Classroom Library
A classroom library needs to be organized in a way to teach and be used on a daily basis. Teachers in the elementary grades need to have a wide variety of books available to students. It is also important to have books at, above, and below the reading level of each child in the class.
In the younger grades, it may be helpful to separate the books by level so that children who are just learning to read can easily find a book that they are capable of reading. The only caution with this is to be sure that students are allowed to attempt any book they want to pick up, and are not restricted to a specific level.
Showcasing specific books is a great way to highlight a topic or complement a lesson. Make use of the top of the bookshelf, chalk board ledges and gutters hung on the walls to display specific books. A great example of this type of showcasing is to place a variety of poetry books on display while teaching a unit on poetry.
Whether at the beginning of the year or half-way through the year, teachers should make an effort to place the classroom library up near the top of their priority for space and instruction. Libraries that appear as more of an afterthought and placed wherever the books can fit will not be as effective as one that is planned and organized with the students in mind.
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Jennifer Wagaman - Jennifer is a mother of 2 and has both public, private and administrative experience in the education field.
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