I discovered a thrilling little nugget in a blog called The Shifted Librarian by Jenny Levine (Internet Development Specialist and Strategy Guide, American Library Association).  I don’t know a librarian, or reader for that matter, who doesn’t love those celebrity READ posters that show famous people with a favorite book.  I have several of these posters in my school library and even considered purchasing the CD’s that allow you to create your own posters.  Funds at my school are limited, however, and I’d rather put books on the shelves than create posters, even really cool ones.

Imagine my excitement when I read about creating mini READ posters online…. for FREE!  I’ve made two so far (see below) and am looking forward to creating many more throughout the year.  The ALA website (click here)allows the download of a picture, provides four format choices, and even lets you add text.  It creates a jpeg file you can then download to your computer.  I’m envisioning mini-posters throughout the school, use in library publications and school flyers/newsletters, offering students their own mini-posters as reading incentives, highlighting guest readers at our school, promoting RIF, letting teachers show off their favorite books… …you get the idea. In fact, I’m sure you have more ideas.

Keep reading and keep learning!

If you’re an employee of Memphis City Schools, I hope you’ve heard of the MCS READS campaign.  This initiative encourages every student, teacher, MCS employee, parent, and community member to read an average of 2 books per month, or 25 books each year. (I know math teachers all over the district are wondering how 2 books per month equates to 25 books a year but since we’re encouraging reading here, I’m hoping you’ll overlook that.)

I’m the first to admit how difficult, outside of an elementary school setting, it is to read 25 books in a year.  Given all the other demands on our time, many of us won’t even attempt it.  Besides, isn’t this just an effort to get our students to read more?  Why do we, as adults, need to keep reading?  Think of reading as exercise for the brain.  Yes, it’s essential for young minds to read, to learn, to grow.  It’s equally important for adults to continue to learn and grow their minds.  The more you read, the more you want to read and the easier it becomes to dive into and finish a great book.  And, believe me, there are ALOT of great books out there.  Something for everybody.

Do yourself and your brain a favor… pick up a good book and find time to read.  Keep a book in the car so you can read when you’re waiting for someone or at an appointment.  I’m currently reading my 6th book of the summer.  I’ll include some recommendations in my next post.

Keep reading and keep learning!