Every week, Advent students visit the Library to explore new books, revisit old favorites, and discover the many ways a library can spark curiosity and inspire learning. Library time with Ms. Collins is also an opportunity to build the skills that help students become confident, independent readers and thoughtful stewards of our shared collection. From learning how to care for books to exploring the importance of the freedom to read, here’s a look at what students have been discovering in the Library!
ECC and Kindergarten: Caring for Our Books
ECC and Kindergarten students have been learning about one of our most important library tools: the Book Hospital! The Book Hospital helps us keep track of books that need a little extra care and repair. Together, we examined damaged books, wondered how they might have gotten that way, and brainstormed ways to take better care of books in the future. Students shared thoughtful ideas about handling books gently and treating them with care. Now, they’re keeping their eyes open for books that might need a trip to the hospital.
First and Second Grade: Finding Our Way with Shelf Markers
First and Second Graders learned about another essential library tool: shelf markers! These handy helpers encourage more independent browsing by allowing students to keep track of where they found a book on the shelf. We talked about why keeping the Library organized matters and how returning books to their proper places helps everyone find what they’re looking for. With their new skills, First Graders are becoming more confident library explorers!
Third Grade: Library Skill Building
Third Graders are working on some new independent library skills, like locating books based on the spine label. Even more recently, these creative readers have been making new labels for series baskets, which helps their friends find what they're looking for and adds a fun personalized touch to this community space.
Fourth and Fifth Grade: Exploring Banned Books Week
In Upper School, library discussions have focused on Banned Books Week, an annual event recognized in early October that brings together the book community in support of the freedom to read.
Fourth and Fifth Graders explored key terms related to book banning and censorship and examined examples of frequently challenged books. They also watched a helpful—and delightfully unexpected—video by author Kelly Yang, who compares book banning to… cheese! The video offered a memorable way to think about why restricting access to books matters and why readers should have the opportunity to encounter a wide range of ideas and perspectives.
Sixth Grade: Looking at the Data Behind Book Banning
Sixth Graders, who have explored this topic in previous years, began with a review of Banned Books Week and some important terminology. This year, we took a closer look at censorship data compiled by the American Library Association. Students analyzed several graphs and data sets, shared their observations, and raised thoughtful questions with one another.
Book banning and censorship are complex topics, and these conversations are just getting started. We’ll continue exploring the data and considering what it tells us about access to books, diverse perspectives, and the freedom to read in our upcoming Library classes.
What Does Freedom to Read Mean to You?
If you’re in the building, stop by the Library and take a moment to read students’ responses to “What Does Freedom to Read Mean to You?” on the board outside the Library. Their reflections offer a wonderful glimpse into how our students are thinking about the importance of books, ideas, and the freedom to explore both.
Support the Advent Library
Looking for a way to support our Library? Visit our Library Wishlist! Updated throughout the year with new releases and titles requested by students, the list offers an easy way to help us keep our shelves fresh, engaging, and full of exciting discoveries. All books are shipped directly to the school.
Thank you for helping us nurture a community of curious readers and lifelong book lovers. Your support is SO appreciated!
