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How to Organize a Classroom Library
Edited by Peter, MA, RMunsonNJ, Flickety and 3 others
Have you built up a good collection of books and need a way to organize them that really works? Do you have trouble getting your students to keep your classroom library organized? Ever wish you could find a book when you need it for that special lesson? Here is a great solution. With a little work and a bit of time you too can achieve an organized library that works and lasts.
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EditSteps
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1Sorting through your books is the greatest challenge. Start with 4 to 6 clear categories of books such as: ABC books, Insects, Reptiles, Bears, General Science, Author: Dr. Seuss, Junie B. Jones books, etc. Combine categories if needed, but leave room for your collection to grow.Ad -
2Storage containers. Open storage bins such as dish tubs or plastic shoe boxes without the lids make it easy for young children to put back books. You can often find dish tubs at local 99cent stores. -
3Label the dish tubs or plastic shoe boxes with printed computer labels and designate a colored dot sticker to define that category of books. Put the same colored sticker on a corner of each book that fits into the category. -
4Shelf space is key. Finding containers that match is also desirable if you are after an impressive look of organization. -
5Teach your students on day 1 about how to check the dots and match the book's dot to the bin's dot and to always return their books to the correct bins. Over time students will warn you when a book is in the wrong bin. -
6See the related article: How to Build a Classroom LibraryAd
EditThings You'll Need
- Books
- Dish tubs or plastic shoeboxes
- Access to a computer to make labels
- Colored dot stickers
- Clear packaging tape
- Scissors
- Shelf space
Article Info
Categories: Borrowing and Sharing Books | Teacher Resources
Recent edits by: KwakuA, Glutted, Flickety
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Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,390 times.
