Diverse Library Books
Libraries are where students can explore their interests
- Readers should have access to current and popular fiction and nonfiction
- Libraries should be organized by interest and for ease of use
- Our collections need to be both mirrors and windows, reflecting our communities and letting students read about themselves and others
Handling Book Challenges
- Help parents feel heard when they have concerns
- Encourage communication at the school level between teachers and parents
- There is always an alternative book choice in the classroom and in the library
- Each parent's involvement in their child's reading is important, but one parent should not decide choice options for all students
- Please contact Library Services if you want support
OBOB 2019
- OBOB is a voluntary program, created and organized at the state level
- Students do not need to read every title in order to participate on a team
- Grades 3-5 titles with summaries
- Letter from OBOB Executive Committee about George
- OBOB official website list of book titles and statement about George
“We believe that choice is a really important part of going to the library and using the library. It’s at the heart of what it means to become a confident reader.” - Fountas and Pinnell, School Library Journal article, October, 12, 2017
Access to Books for Everyone
We recommend updating circulation practices
- Think of books as consumables, budget for loss and damage
- Increase the number to 5 books students can check out and take home
- Allow checkouts to students who have overdues and fines
“Damaged and lost material is an inevitable aspect of library use, particularly with very young children, and needs to be considered the cost of doing business with the library’s young patrons.” - Meg Johnson DePriest, Colorado State Library
Library Services
Your District Librarians are a Resource
- We select the books
- We advise Future Ready library renovations
- We are a resource for book challenges
- We train and support library staff
Contact Information
- Library Services office: 503.356.4546
- Emily Carlson - North Elementary Schools
- Jenny Takeda - South Elementary Schools
- Jen Blair - Secondary Schools
Other Resources
- Fountas and Pinnell Say Librarians Should Guide Readers by Interest, Not Level - School Library Journal article, 10/12/17
- Removing Barriers to Access - Colorado State Library, 2016
- “What Does This Book Have To Do With Me?” Why Mirror And Window Books Are Important For All Readers - Associate Professor of Literacy Education at Manhattanville College, 2/4/13
- Mirrors & Windows in BSD Libraries booklist
- A Guide to Using Graphic Novels with Children & Teens - Scholastic
- Instructional Materials Selection II/IA-AR
- Library Fines Procedures
Credits:
Vince Radostitz & Library Services. Book covers from Follett School Solutions.