Giving our students access to great books is critical to helping them grow as learners and readers. I believe that a classroom library is as important to a classroom as the kitchen is to the home—it’s the heart or central hub of what brings us together. Building a classroom library and figuring out how to organize a classroom library can feel overwhelming, especially if you are a new teacher or a teacher with a limited budget. While it takes a little work and creativity, building a classroom library on a budget is totally doable, and summer is a great time to work on it!
5 Tips to Help Build a Classroom Library
Here are 5 tips that I used to grow my library, from a few well-loved books to a classroom library overflowing with quality, high-interest books that excite and engage my learners.
1. Scholastic Book Clubs
Sending home Scholastic Book Club orders each month not only gives your families access to quality, affordable books, but it also helps you earn points to use towards getting free books! Whenever the Book Box arrived, it felt like Christmas in our classroom. Thanks to our book orders, I got hundreds of great books for free for my kids each year.
2. Yard Sales/Library Sales
Yard sales and library sales allow you to get books for mere pocket change! Look for yard sales with kid’s clothing or toys, and you’ll usually find great children’s books. You can look up local library sales for your area online. Be sure to try to go on the first day for the best selection of books, but also don’t miss the last day when many library sales have a fill-a-bag deal for as little as a dollar or two.
3. Asking for Donations
Don’t be afraid to ask for gently used book donations from families and friends. Many people are overjoyed to go through their home libraries and donate to your classroom.
4. Used Book Stores And Thrift Stores
Throughout the summer, I liked to stop by our local thrift stores to check out the latest additions to the children’s book section. You can get so many great used books at second-hand stores, and some stores, like 2nd and Charles, also offer a teacher discount on all books purchased for your classroom library with a valid teaching ID. Online stores, like Amazon and eBay, also have great used books that are sometimes half the price of a new book.
5. Throw a Paperpie Book Party
I was introduced to PaperPie, which used to be called Usborne Books, a few years ago and fell in love with their books! The best part is that when you host a party online or at home, you’ll earn many quality books. They have books for all ages and some great non-fiction selections too. My first graders loved the Shine-a-Light series!
How to Organize a Classroom Library
When it comes to figuring out how to organize a classroom library it can be just as overwhelming as funding one. But, organizing a classroom library efficiently can greatly enhance students’ access to books and foster a love for reading. Teachers can create a welcoming space that promotes exploration and learning by categorizing books and establishing clear systems. We all know I loved student choice when it comes to picking out books. Here are some practical steps to organize a classroom library:
– Sort books by genre or subject: Arrange books into categories such as fiction, non-fiction, science fiction, mystery, biography, etc., making it easier for students to find books that match their interests.
– Alphabetize books within categories: For each genre or subject, alphabetize books by author’s last name or title to streamline browsing.
– Label shelves or bins: Clearly label each section or bin with the corresponding genre or subject to help students locate books quickly.
– Create a cozy reading area: Designate a comfortable corner with bean bags, rugs, or cushions where students can relax and enjoy their chosen books.
– Implement a borrowing system: Establish a simple checkout system where students can borrow and return books in an organized manner, promoting responsibility and accountability.
I’m a firm believer that you can never have too many books! Building a classroom library on a budget may take time and creativity, but it is well worth seeing our kids have access to various quality books that will allow their love of learning and reading to grow. Plus, once you figure out how to organize a classroom library, you’ll be ready for anything!
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