Little Free Library gives students access to books
As many of you may have noticed, there is a new installation in the cafeteria of AHS. The Little Free Library, a bookshelf full of popular novels, is now accessible for all students during their study halls and throughout their day.
“We have a Reading Committee at AHS made up of students and staff,” said Senior English Teacher Rose Brown, who put up the library this week. “Its purpose statement reads, "This committee strives to promote reading, create an environment for reading and plan reading related activities." The idea of the Little Free Library is yet another way to put this philosophy into action.”
The idea was inspired by various other little local libraries that have sprung up mostly in public parks. “I have seen Little Free Libraries at the local parks and helped a boy scout construct some for his Eagle project,” Brown. She built the bookshelf herself with her husband, using an old dictionary cart. They took inspiration from the Little Free Library at the Aurora Fire Station Park, and even added shingles to the top for a roof.
Brown donated almost all the books currently on the shelf herself; however, there have already been two more boxes of books donated by other teachers. The books vary in genre and reading level, so students can likely find something to fit their interest if they’re bored in study hall or just want something new to read.
“ I recognize that many students do not frequent the library, so this is a way to making reading available to them where they are - in lunch and study hall. I am also hopeful that it will be looked as a resource for the entire school,” said Brown. “If you take a book - either return it when finished, or replace it with an appropriate book. We recognize that not everyone will do this, so students and staff are also encouraged to bring book donations to help keep the shelves full.”
The Reading Committee is planning several other projects this year, so make sure to look out for upcoming changes to the library, use the hashtag #GreenmenRead to share the latest novels you’ve read, and attend the monthly book club, A Novel Idea.
