Creating an environment across the entire school that promotes and values reading can significantly change the school into a place where reading is not only encouraged and supported but also seen as a regular and essential activity (Merga, 2023). The strategies and techniques employed to foster these cultures are directly linked to heightened enthusiasm for reading and enhancements in overall literacy abilities. The development of reading culture is a key focus of our elementary school. In this blog post I want to share what we do in our library to promote reading culture among Grade 1 to 5 students. 

Comfortable Reading Areas: In our school library we create cosy nooks with cushions, bean bags, or comfortable chairs where students can curl up with a book. Providing varied seating options accommodates different preferences and promotes relaxation while reading.

Diverse Book Collection: We curate a diverse collection of books that cater to different interests, reading levels, and cultural backgrounds of Grade 1 to 5 students by including a variety of genres and booktypes in our collection. The books are displayed by reading genres and book series which makes it easy for students to find and select books that appeal to them. Children’s area with thin picture books is arranged to display front covers of the books to attract students’ attention.

Interactive Displays: Every week we create thematic book displays based on seasons, holidays, or popular topics and school events that drive the students’ curiosity and encourage them to pick up books related to those themes.

Reading Challenges and Programs: Our school library organises the Book Week event every year. During the Book Week we hold various reading competitions, author visits and storytelling sessions with parents as guest readers in each classroom. We celebrate the end of the Book Week with a dress up day, when students and teachers dress like their favourite book characters. 

Technology Integration: We incorporate technology by providing access to digital books or educational apps that complement the reading experience.It is important to balance traditional print materials with digital resources to cater to different learning preferences.

Student Involvement:  We involve students in the library’s organisation and activities. Our passive programming sections of the library encourage students to recommend books, create book reviews or book trailers, and look up new words in a dictionary. This fosters a sense of ownership and engagement with the library.

Quiet and Reflective Spaces:The library provides areas for quiet reading and reflection. These spaces are free from distractions and conducive to concentration, allowing students to immerse themselves in their reading without interruptions.

Regular Library Lessons : All classes have a scheduled Library lesson once a week where the students can explore the library, participate in activities related to books and reading, and receive guidance from the librarian on selecting appropriate reading materials.

Fostering a reading culture in primary schools aligns with several relevant learning and wellbeing goals outlined in the General Capabilities of the Australian Curriculum. Specifically, it supports literacy development, critical thinking, personal and social capabilities, ethical understanding, intercultural understanding, and student wellbeing (Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority, n.d.).

References:

Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (n.d.). General capabilities in the Australian Curriculum. https://www.australiancurriculum.edu.au/f-10-curriculum/general-capabilities

Merga, M. K. (2023). Creating a reading culture in primary and secondary schools : a practical guide. Facet Publishing.