My Library Is... Growing (Lotus Library Reading & Beyond)

As we all know libraries have changed over the years, from e-books, chromebooks, and maker spaces to adding STEAM, reading nests, Lego and Lite Brite walls and so much more.  However, one passion of mine has always been to keep real books in the hands of the students. 

Students need to understand how a book is written and what makes up a story.  There is a plethora of ways to express oneself.   This was the perfect opportunity to have a special maker space which allows students to do just that through writing and illustration.  

We have many items available in our maker space: 

• Author & Illustrator Section
• All different types of paper (construction, paper stock, lined paper, story paper (small / jumbo), & plain paper.
• Templates to help get them started (graphic novel formats) and mini blank books which include different types and sizes
• Stencils, stickers and decorations
• Binding materials like hole punchers, binder maker, mini laminator for covers of stories, scissors, ring holders, and stapler
• Markers, writing pencils, pens, colored pencils, charcoal chalk, fine markers and easel chalk
• Signage to help navigate sections
• Posters to guide them on steps to write and draw
• Display of student author books and a special place to put their books or illustrations to show off their creations 

Each grade level Kindergarten through fourth grade can have time to do this during library once a week.  However, it is so popular we have added it to our Positive Behavior Store where students can purchase a Library pass with their points to redeem 20 minute sessions to use the writing and creating space.  Sometimes students are just allowed to come in and take a break when needed.  This space allows them to seek some reflection time through drawing or writing.   

From the start of this project, there was much excitement.  During library time, they have time to check out a book, and we always read a story or read about a theme.  In the beginning of the school year, we talk about how important it is to read even if it is just looking at pictures with kindergarten classes.  We learn the parts of a book, story, and the importance of illustrations.  This is where the center becomes a hot spot as students really want to have that escape to just write or create a picture all on their own. It was fascinating to watch how some students started collaborating and working as a team.  

Students were excited and committed, determined to do a little at a time, patient when it came to competing a story and illustration, and experimented with different formats and drawing materials. 

The maker space will continue to provide a special space for ALL Students to write a story and illustrate pictures to promote the wonderful world of reading.  Students have been so excited they take their work home to work on, leave it in our works in progress drawers, or just want to have that special place to express their emotions on paper.  We are so fortunate to help promote the importance of storytelling and exploration.  This school year for our Family Reading Night we are providing the opportunity for students to create a family story together.  This event will introduce to the parents our special space we have and provide some great family bondage of creating something together as a family.  We will be providing each family a book.  I can’t wait!

Today's blog post was written by Kim VanHoorelbeke, Library Para, Fox Lake District #114. 

This project was made possible by the My Library Is... Grant.