Literacy Gains Start Here
If we want to raise reading achievement, classroom libraries can’t be an afterthought. They need to be part of a school’s core literacy strategy—and that starts with leadership. When district leaders prioritize funding for classroom libraries, they send a powerful message: reading matters here. Without district support, classroom libraries are often an amalgamation of donations, yard sale finds, and discounted remainders, purchased by individual teachers who understand the value of a classroom library better than anyone, but cannot always fund its investment. While this approach is well-intentioned, it won’t have the same impact as a thoughtfully curated library customized to each classroom’s unique needs. When districts prioritize funding for classroom libraries, they take one of the most important steps to increasing reading proficiency for every student.
How District Leaders Can Support Ongoing Impact:
Dedicated budget lines for library refreshes
Guidelines for high-interest, high-quality collections
Professional development to help teachers maximize the impact of their libraries
Strategic integration of digital platforms to broaden access
You don’t need to do it all at once. Start with one grade. One collection. One team. Then build from there. Because when students have access to books—and the time and encouragement to read them—comprehension, confidence, and achievement all grow. The stakes for literacy have never been higher. When it comes to improving reading outcomes, classroom libraries have a critical
role to play. Classroom libraries are more than just books on shelves. They build daily reading habits, enhance classroom instruction, and directly contribute to academic growth and success.
Your classroom library starts with 750 books.
12 | scholastic.com/classroomlibraries
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