Follow the Leader (Or Not)
“Do as I say, not as I do.” Educators say it in jest many times throughout their careers. It teaches an important lesson: sometimes, those in charge have different sets of rules from students. Whether it’s using a cell phone for authentication, or eating at a desk, actions occasionally contradict directives. There’s one area, though, where it’s important to have the same standards as our students: reading books.
Let’s Get Excited
Reading has been part of my identity for as long as I can remember. It remains a top priority of mine. Each summer break as the long days stretch before me, I have high hopes for hikes, beach days, writing retreats. . .a whole list of adventures. I usually have my share of those pleasures, but for the most part, I wind up staying close to home getting lost in stories. For many of today’s teenagers, reading is not an activity that excites them. As I pointed out in my article on Sustained Silent Reading, spending time with books, even in small increments, increases students’ stamina for reading. Displaying consistency on our own literacy paths can spark motivation in those less inclined to pick up books for fun.
Share the Wealth
Despite the public image of librarians’ jobs, it’s not realistic for students to see us reading books all throughout the day. What we can do, though, is highlight the books we read. Communicate our excitement over titles we love. Express our disappointment about ones that didn’t click. Create positive models of interactive reading lives.
Including book stack photos and book lists on our library pages or other public displays is an easy way to get the word out. Students see that librarians practice what they preach. Though not every library media specialist has the same amount of time to read outside of work–some have young children, others have multiple jobs, all have responsibilities–showcasing a love of reading in whatever way possible is likely to have a positive effect.
Make Books Newsworthy
In my September library newsletter, I shared all of the books I read over the summer, including links to my goodreads reviews. While there were few young adult books in my lineup, the idea was for students to see that I prioritized reading. My true work takes place in the library, where I expose teens to the myriad books and genres that may interest them.
As I prepare for a school year of library contests, book tastings, and other literary activities, I’ll continue to express my enthusiasm about the books I read. With a little luck, my obsession will wear off on those around me.
Reference
Karin Greenberg, “A Call to Bring Back Sustained Silent Reading,” Knowledge Quest Journal, December 2024.
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