Sheryl Hilton-Blog Post #4- Routman's Chapter 5

It is so true that a strong independent reading program depends on the classroom library. I have accumulated books over the years. Some through donations but most being purchased by myself. Within the last year, I began sorting and organizing the books in my classroom by level and by theme or content. I have labeled the books and tubs so students have access to getting the books themselves as well as returning them to the appropriate bins. I have worked on organizing and arranging a comfortable spot with kid size chairs to make it appealing and a desired spot to be when reading.
I was encouraged to read that we already do many of the things suggested to expand home reading. We have many things in place that help our students have access and opportunity to have books in their hands. Our school places reading as a priority.
I do need to expand my library to include more picture books to help my struggling readers. I also have purchased newer books by desired authors but it becomes costly to continually spend on my library. When you consider buying bins, labels, card stock, and books, it adds up quickly. A classroom library isn't something that you can put together overnight. It is an ongoing process.
There were a few suggestions I especially liked from this chapter. One was the "light reading". I liked the idea of turning students on to reading by letting them read books that were not necessarily a challenge for them but enjoyable. This increases their "reading motivation". Secondly I loved the idea of the top 10 book list. I can even see it working in kindergarten later in the year.
I was encouraged to see that I am on the right track with my classroom library and that my time and money have been well spent.