Classroom libraries can be so much more than just a place to store books because a classroom library truly can help you enhance classroom culture. If you leverage your classroom library in the right way, you can use it to build a robust culture of reading. Giving your students unbridled access to the right books at the right level can unlock the reader inside of each of your students. In addition, putting just a few personal touches on your classroom library can help you connect with your students in an authentic way.
If you are still working on building your initial classroom library and are trying to figure out how to get the best books, please read this post for my tips on how to get started.
If you have your classroom library established, this post will help you leverage your hard work in order to make better connections with students. This post contains affiliate links. Please click here to read more about my affiliate policy.
Classroom culture is immediately improved when you prioritize relationships with your students. We all know that, but what does it have to do with a classroom library? Read on to see.
Tip #1: Make sure your classroom library has a few of your own favorite books on it.
Students love getting recommendations directly from me. If I can lend a copy of a book to a student and discuss it with them when they’re done, we’re on our way to forming a stronger bond. Make your library houses a few of your own favorites that you can lend out and discuss.
Tip #2: Make your library reflect your personality.
A few years ago, I purchased some Funko POP figures to decorate my bookshelf and it morphed into quite an impressive collection. Now even students who don’t have my class will comment on the different figures. I’ve even had a few really sweet students gift me characters they knew I’d love. I also have photos of loved ones in frames on the shelves. If you can find a way to incorporate things you love onto the shelf, you have yet another way to connect.
Tip #3: Add a little inspiration.
There are entire blogs dedicated to beautifying bookshelves, but you don’t necessarily need to go that far. A bookshelf can be a great place to house a letter board, writing-themed signs, or anything else you think would be motivating for both you and your students to see on a daily basis.
Tip #4 : Browse the YA section.
Can’t think of any books that you and your students might both enjoy? Once in a while, I’ll peruse the YA section of Barnes and Noble or Target just to see what’s popular and then I’ll see if any of them have read those titles. Since I personally love reading YA so much, I offer a list of 100 YA Novels you can download for free just by signing up for my email list. I update the list every year with fresh titles to add to your library. If you haven’t gotten it yet, your email below to find some great titles to add (or mention to your students!).
Tip #5: Offering hope where you can.
I’m a firm believer in bibliotherapy and sometimes the right book just needs to get into the hands of the right kid. As teachers, we know that many classroom management issues stem from students who are in need of help in other areas of their lives. Why not direct them to a good book that might provide some comfort? Need help finding the right fit? Ask your media specialist or local YA librarian.
Hopefully this post gave you a few ideas about how to use your classroom library to connect with your students. Relationships matter and we should look for all of the little ways to incorporate the opportunity to prioritize them.
Do you have any other great tips to share about how to create classroom culture with your library? Drop a comment below or follow me on Instagram to join the conversation!
Happy teaching!
