Need some ideas? Inspiration? These are all tried-and-true activities I’ve done in my libraries over my career. I’ve worked at all grade levels, both in Texas and in China, so you’ll find a wide variety here!
This section is new on my blog as of March 2021. I’ve written hundreds of articles over the years, so please bear with me as I curate them and add to this list. Some of them are in need of an update!
Shark Storytime Activity Ideas : 11 Easy Ideas for Shark Week in the Library
This shark-obsessed librarian is excited to share some shark storytime activity ideas with you today! I originally wanted to share these ideas before Shark Week, which is usually in late-July
Hook New Readers with First Chapter Fridays
A couple of days ago, a reader emailed me to ask for suggestions for First Chapter Fridays. This is where librarians or teachers read-aloud the first chapter of a book
September 11 Books – 16 Titles for Kids and Teens
Looking for some September 11 Books for your K-12 classroom or library? Books about this event are still growing in number, so I update this list annually to ensure it’s
What are Tall Tales? – 12 Characteristics of the Tall Tale Genre
Many schools list tall tales as part of the folklore curriculum for elementary grades. But what are tall tales, exactly? The main thing to remember about tall tales is exaggeration.
How to Host a Haiku Writing Contest in Your School Library
I have mentioned (once or twice!) how much I love teaching poetry! I love it at all grade levels, both as a classroom teacher and in the library. Along with
Five Tips for Using Reading Bingo in Middle School
For librarians and elementary schools, Reading Bingo isn’t a new idea. I’ve seen countless printable Reading Bingo cards online, both free and for sale. When I was at the elementary
Host a Book-A-Thon Fundraiser
Who needs more money for the library? We do! We do! Book-A-Thon fundraisers are a great way to celebrate World Book Day, Book Week, Literacy Month, author birthdays, Read Across
Blind Date with a Book – Unwrap a Mystery Book
Today’s idea won’t be anything new for most of you. Blind Date with a Book has been around for quite a few years, and you can find loads of ideas
A Snowball on a Hill: How to Start a School-Wide Reading Challenge
New Year’s Resolutions? No way! New Year’s Reading Goals? YES! I gave up on New Year’s Resolutions many years ago. Like most people I know, I rarely stick with any
Library Lesson Idea: Lunchtime Kahoots
Our school is on a six-day rotating schedule. Every day–1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6–is a different schedule. On Day 4, I have been doing a “Day 4 Kahoot”
Why I Openly Discuss Anxiety at School
“Every night I lie in bed The brightest colors fill my head A million dreams are keeping me awake” —The Greatest Showman, “A Million Dreams” It’s 2:23 am, and I
News You Can Use: How to Use Current Events in the Classroom or Library
How do you use current events in the classroom or library? I’ve got some great ideas for you today! Please note that I originally wrote this post on December 10,
My Favorite Back to School Library Activity – Library Orientation Scavenger Hunt
Looking for a fun and easy Back to School library activity? This one is my favorite! This Library Orientation Scavenger Hunt allows students to independently explore the library while locating
Digital Bulletin Boards: 16 Ideas for Library Content
This post about Digital Library Bulletin Boards was originally published in 2015. Back then, I called them “Scrolling PowerPoints.” I now call them Digital Bulletin Boards, and they are now
Fun Ideas for Middle School Library Orientation
Ahh, the first day of school! Call me crazy, but I’ve always loved it! I will see my first middle school library orientation classes this Wednesday. We have a book