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Improve Library Efficiency with Student Library Helpers

As school librarians, we juggle so much – circulation, shelving, displays, and helping our students find the perfect book to spark their curiosity. It’s a lot to handle and, some days, it can feel like you need an extra set of hands (or five). That’s where library helpers come in! They’re the secret to keeping your library running smoothly while giving students a sense of ownership and responsibility. Whether it’s shelving books or organizing supplies, library helpers can transform your space into a more efficient and welcoming environment. Today, I’m sharing some tips and guidance for how to get library helpers started in your library! Why Library Helpers Are a Game-Changer Having library helpers has completely changed how I manage my library. They don’t just take a load off my plate. They also make the library feel like a shared space where everyone contributes. These student volunteers bring so

Teaching Types of Genres to Elementary Students

If you’ve ever watched your kiddos light up when they connect with a story, you know how powerful books can be. When I introduce different types of genres in the school library, it’s a chance to open the door to new worlds, big ideas, and unforgettable adventures. Picture and chapter books are great for lessons because they’re perfect for breaking down genre elements while keeping children engaged. Whether you’re working with primary students or upper elementary readers, there’s something magical about finding just the right book to bring a genre to life. Today, I’m sharing some favorites that I use when teaching the different types of genres to my students. Breaking Down the Types of Genres Before diving into book recommendations, let’s take a moment to break down what makes up each genre. Understanding the key features of each genre helps our students recognize patterns and appreciate the storytelling

Graphic Organizers Spark Clarity and Comprehension for Students

Navigating the writing process can be a common challenge, both for me personally and for my students. From deciding where to start to organizing thoughts, the struggle is real. Whether assisting my students in their writing journeys or diving deep into reading comprehension, helping students work through all the thoughts and ideas can be challenging. That’s where the magic of graphic organizers comes in! Today, I’ll walk you through why graphic organizers are a must-have in your toolbox, what exactly they are, and throw in a few examples that you can use with your students! What Are Graphic Organizers? Have you ever been lost? Maybe you’ve been lost literally in a new place, or maybe you have felt lost in a school subject. Both scenarios create an icky feeling of being overwhelmed and hopeless. When students feel like this they have racing thoughts overpowering each other in their heads,

The Ultimate School Librarian Survival Kit

While sometimes it feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day to tackle everything on our to-do list, being an elementary or middle school librarian is such a rewarding gig! From cataloging new books to organizing reading programs and helping students find their next favorite read, there’s a lot of variety in this job! If you love what you do, but need some systems to help make it more efficient, I’ve got your back! Let’s talk about my school librarian survival kit and how it will be a total game-changer for you. What’s Included in This School Librarian Survival Kit My school librarian survival kit has EVERYTHING you need to rock the new school year. It includes lesson plans, activity ideas, library management tips, and even some fun decorations to brighten up your space. With these resources, you’ll have all the tools to keep your library running smoothly

Community Reading: One School, One Book’s School Impact

In a world where screens compete for our attention at every turn, there’s something truly magical happening in schools across the nation. It’s called the “One School, One Book” initiative, a breath of fresh air for teachers and families. This program isn’t just about reading, it’s about igniting a passion for stories. Community reading creates a strong sense of togetherness among students, parents, and teachers. So, grab a comfy chair, because in this blog post, we’re diving into the world of “One School, One Book.” We’ll uncover what it’s all about, the benefits, and how you can host one at your school. I’ve even got some fantastic book suggestions for your K-5 community! What’s the Buzz About “One School, One Book”? So, what’s this whole “One School, One Book” thing all about? At its core, it’s about building a vibrant sense of community through the sheer wonder of a

Scary Books for Kids: Top Picks from Kindergarten to 5th Grade

Do you remember those nights as a kid when the rain was pouring down, thunder was booming, and the spooky vibe of October was in the air? It was the perfect time to dive into thrilling, bone-chilling, scary books. I used to huddle under my blanket, flashlight in hand, and get lost in stories that sent shivers down my spine. Those were the moments when reading felt like an incredible adventure. I’m so excited to share this blog post with you today! It’s all about recreating those unforgettable experiences for your kiddos, no matter their age! From friendly ghosts to mysterious monsters, I’ve handpicked some fantastic spooky tales that will ignite young imaginations! Scary Books for Kindergarten to 2nd Grade For our littlest readers, it’s important to find books that offer just the right amount of spookiness without being too scary. These recommendations are perfect for kindergarteners through 2nd

Books for Boys: Top Picks for Primary and Upper-Grade Readers

Remember when we talked about the incredible journey of encouraging boys to embrace the world of books in our previous blog post? Well, I’m back with the next exciting chapter – recommended books for boys. In a world buzzing with screens and non-stop distractions, helping boys develop a passion for reading is like giving them a superpower. I’ve heard you loud and clear – you’re hungry for book recommendations to light up those young imaginations and keep the pages turning! So, get ready to dive into the awesome universe of books curated just for boys in primary and upper grades. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or bookworm on a mission, I’ve got you covered. We’re about to unveil a treasure trove of stories that’ll grab their attention, fuel their curiosity, and kickstart a lifelong love for excellent storytelling. Books for Boys: Primary Grades These books are the coolest buddies

Encourage Boys to Read More with these Tips and Strategies

As a natural lover of reading, one thing I had to rewire my brain about when I started working with kiddos is how some of them do not enjoy reading. They would rather stare at a wall than read for 20 minutes. When this topic is brought to me by teachers it is often connected with boys. Yes, there are many boys who enjoy reading, but historically teachers and parents have a more difficult time getting their boys excited about reading. I am a firm believer that there is a book out there for everyone and if you find the perfect fit for your students (boy or girl), it can be a game changer. Keep reading for tips and strategies to encourage boys to read more. And. . . these tips work for girls too. Throughout the years, I have definitely discovered how reading isn’t every boy’s favorite pastime.

Read-Alouds Made Easy: 10 Tips for Successful Storytelling

My favorite memories from when I was a student include when my teachers would have read-aloud time. When the lights dimmed and my teacher perched on her stool, I knew an adventure would begin! I loved being able to fall into a story with the help of my teacher’s ability to change voices and bring the story to life with her animation. Now, you and I are the champions of literacy for our kiddos. We hold the key to unlocking the magical world of read-alouds for them. A well-crafted read-aloud session can spark curiosity, nurture imagination, and foster a lifelong love for books. I have gathered some incredible tips to make your read-alouds unforgettable! 1. Collect Captivating Read-Alouds As book lovers, we understand how mind-blowing a good story can be! So when choosing books for read-alouds, pick ones that click with your students. Consider what they’re into, what fits

Graphic Novel Recommendations for 3rd -5th: 12 Must-Reads

Do you know what the coolest thing about graphic novels is? They weave captivating tales with eye-catching illustrations, ensuring that your readers will be hooked! These books are more than just stories – they’re a gateway to far-off lands and new dimensions. I have something special lined up just for you. I’ve gathered the most popular graphic novels, both fiction and nonfiction, that are absolutely perfect for your 3rd – 5th graders. They have everything from epic quests that’ll keep everyone on the edge of their seats to heartwarming stories. These graphic novel recommendations will take your young learners on incredible adventures they’ll cherish forever. Why Should I Include Graphic Novels in My Collection? Graphic novels are the ultimate blend of storytelling and illustrations. They’re a magical mashup of words and art that creates an exciting reading experience like no other! It’s like reading a comic book but with

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