Books for a New Teacher's Classroom Library

Collecting Books to Use in an Elementary Classroom

Jul 9, 2009

New teachers need to put a little bit of thought into organizing their classroom library in order to make the most of this important piece of the classroom.

When organizing a classroom, new teachers need not overlook the classroom library. This is a vital part of the classroom where learning will take place each and every day. This is the place where teachers can pull out a book at a moment’s notice to highlight a topic or concept during a lesson and a place where students can go to indulge an interest in a new topic. Here are a few guidelines for building a good classroom library.

Levels to Include in the Classroom Library

When setting up a classroom library, it is important to have three levels of books available for students to choose from. Given the mix of abilities in classrooms today, especially those in inclusion classrooms, teachers need to have a healthy mix of books for all students to be able to read. These include specifically:

Genres to Include in the Classroom Library

When gathering books to include in a classroom library, it is vital that a new teacher include books from several genres. While the popular children’s book may be an easy choice, these books will not appeal to every student in the classroom. Additionally, teachers need to include books that will stretch student’s minds and introduce them to new ideas. Important genres to be sure to include in the classroom library include:

Additional Books to Include in the Classroom Library

When setting up a classroom library, it is helpful to include a few books that will specifically target issues that may come up in class. For example, in an inclusion classroom, it will be wise to include books such as Eagle Eyes, Houdini’s Gift, and The Don’t-give-up Kid, by Jeanne Gehret [Verbal Images Press, September, 2009].

These books provide unique glimpses into the lives of children, one with ADD and one with a reading disability. While readers learn what it is like to live with these particular disabilities, children, parents and teachers will also learn important tips on how to cope with the effects of a disability on their lives. Find out more about special education books for children.

New teachers need to spend time building and organizing their classroom library so that their students have a wide range of books to choose from. Providing books at several levels and a variety of genres is the starting point for a great classroom library.

The copyright of the article Books for a New Teacher's Classroom Library in Classroom Organization is owned by Jennifer Wagaman. Permission to republish Books for a New Teacher's Classroom Library in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.