A shipment of new library books has students and faculty member buzzing at Washington Primary School. The new volumes include award winning picture books, the engaging “Who Was/Who Is” biography series and STEAM centered books to encourage intellectual growth and critical thinking skills. Popular reads, such as “Dogman” and “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” are also now available in Spanish.
“With so many titles to discover and choose from, it was imperative that all students were given the opportunity to not only explore, but to also celebrate the new books they can now access in the school library,” said Rebecca Kraus, Washington’s first year school library media specialist.
To celebrate the arrival of the new books, students participated in a book “tasting” or sampling activity during their regularly scheduled library class.
“Our kindergarteners and first grade students sat and listened to three minute long read-alouds of a selection of new books,” Mrs. Kraus said. They then wrote or drew about their favorites. Our second and third grade students had a chance to dive right into the new books through three minute table rotations. Every three minutes, students would switch tables to read and review a specific type or genre of book. They then rated and wrote down a list of the books they enjoyed the most. As a result, students were exposed to the new collection and had a chance to discover a new book or series to enjoy before circulation.”
Faculty and paraprofessional staff members were invited to a “bagels and books” event last Friday morning in the library. Breakfast items, sweet treats and coffee were available as teachers, teacher assistants and teacher aides browsed the new collection.
“As our teachers explored the new books, we had a chance to discuss initiatives towards librarian/teacher collaborative opportunities,” Mrs. Kraus said. “Overall, this event demonstrated how our school library program will continue to strive to be an exceptional provider of resources that can serve both students and faculty.”
Mrs. Kraus obtained her undergraduate degree at Stony Brook University and a master’s degree at Long Island University. She has worked as a children services librarian at the Half Hollow Hills Community Library in Dix Hills.
Washington teachers and staff can expect more such book breakfasts in the future. “As the school library media specialist, this is a tradition I wish to continue every year when a book order is received,” Mrs. Kraus said. “The library program will continue to provide experiences which encourage a love of reading and academic exploration in every student. Our library is dedicated to each child’s journey of self-discovery and how their interests as well as curiosities can lead to success.”
Students are very happy with the new books. “Mrs. Kraus executed a wonderful plan to introduce Washington’s students and staff to our newest inventory of selections for our growing library,” Principal Michelle Richards said. “One of Washington Primary School’s goals for our library program is to have a collection of selections that resemble the student body that is culturally diverse and based on the interests of our students. We are moving in that direction.”
The new books have ignited a new passion for reading among students. “It is an absolute pleasure to serve Washington School, our students and our colleagues,” Mrs. Kraus said. “I am looking forward to all future projects and endeavors.”
