How to Organize a Classroom Library

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By AskSummer
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Actual Classroom Library

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!!!

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Books
Dish tubs or plastic shoeboxes
access to a computer to make labels
colored dot stickers (not to be confused with buttterd potstickers)
clear packaging tape
scissors
shelf space

Step 1

Disorganized Bookshelf

Sorting through your books is the greatest challenge. Start with 4-6 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.
Step 2

Storage containers. Open storage bins such as dishtubs or plastic shoeboxes WITHOUT the lids make it easy for young children to put back books. You can often find dishtubs at local 99cent stores.
Step 3

Label the dishtubs or plastic shoeboxes 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.
Step 4

Shelf space is key. Finding containers that match is also desirable if you are after an impressive look of organization.
Step 5

Teach 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.
Step 6

See my article: How to Build Your Classroom Library

Comments

Pixie1976 said

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on 8/23/2008 Thanks for the tips!

purrfect1969 said

on 7/5/2008 Love these ideas.

Limowreck said

on 7/5/2008 I don't have a classroom either, but my son does have a library that ends up scattered across the living room floor three or four times a day. Great organizing tips! Thanks!