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Celebrating is an integral aspect of Library
Connections. These celebrations need to occur to inform, acknowledge,
encourage and to support the reading of quality literature, the choices
made and the collaborative efforts of all involved. Celebrating refers to
the school community gathering to be informed and updated in meaningful
ways.
The school community needs an initial gathering to promote and inform
regarding Library Connections. A mid-year gathering to share literacy
connections in a meaningful manner is recommended to encourage reading.
Such examples of literacy connections to share would be a readers’ theatre
presentation prepared by teachers and students using an appropriate
“connection book”, inviting a guest author in or dramatic readings from
excerpts of “connection books” presented by students would all serve to be
memorable. To bring closure, a year-end gathering to update the school
community of the year-long growth and to celebrate the outcomes is
desirable. At this time the students who have read a predetermined number of the
“connection books” could be acknowledged and receive a certificate.
Year-end information regarding “library connection statistics” and
possibly a photograph of the giant “library connection puzzle” could be
published in the school newsletter. This would bring closure to the
current Library Connections and also a benchmark beginning for Library
Connections the following year.
Throughout the school year it is important to acknowledge those students
and classes that are involved in Library Connections by hosting
special activities and inviting those involved to attend. These special
activities need to be specifically related to the “library connection
books” and should be able to accommodate quite a crowd. Such activities
would occur during school time and those students who have read, so many,
“connection books”, would be invited to attend. Activities such as
watching a video connected to one of the “connection books”, a popcorn
reading party, a Christmas Tea or listening to poetry in the park would
each acknowledge participation.
Such events would certainly celebrate the efforts in a genuine, sincere
and lasting manner. Acknowledging those who connect promotes the spirit of
reading choices and makes all the collaborative efforts worthwhile |
