Tested ideas for reading and library programs.Looking for ways to help your library run smoother and promote materials? Try these fun tips.
Games and Puzzles
Provide an opportunity for all patrons to use the game and puzzle pages in your magazines. In the periodical section of your library provide a supply of blank acetate sheets and wipe-off markers. Have patrons position sheets of acetate atop the game pages and complete the pages with wipe-off markers. Students can use and reuse these pages and cleanup is easy. An alternative is to have the acetate and markers at the circulation counter.
Beautiful Book Jackets
Have patrons create book jackets for their favorite books. Use construction paper, or white bond paper that you laminate. On the front of the jackets, have patrons write the books' titles, authors, and illustrators. Create illustrations from scenes in the stories. On the inside of the jacket, have the patrons write a few sentences telling why the books are their favorites. Patrons can sign their name. Display the book jackets on a table or bulletin board. You can display them thematically or by reading levels.
Just the Ticket!
This management system uses positive reinforcement for good library behavior. Use either raffle tickets you can buy at a party store, or make your own. If you make your own you can personalize a ticket for each patron; then laminate and cut out. As a class enters the library media center, give each child his personalized ticket. A youngster works to retain his ticket by listening carefully, following directions, and participating appropriately. At the end of the class period, students with tickets place them in a special container. Draw one ticket from the container and award a small prize such as a bookmark or pencil to the winning patron.