Are you funding your own classroom library? If you are the majority of teachers, then the answer is yes. We work so hard to help our students become readers. Yet, there is no to little money given to us to build our classroom libraries.
Every child deserves to find the joy of reading. So, how can teachers create a classroom library without emptying their own wallet? Read on to learn my 6 ways to build a classroom library that your students will love!
I am currently in my 14th year of teaching and have over 1,500 books in my classroom library. This was not an easy task and I had to work on building it over many years. I’ve worked in a Title I school district and a high SES district. And I’m here to tell you, neither one of these places give teachers much funding to build a classroom library. I’ve had to purchase and collect books myself for more than a decade.
Now, before you close out, hear me out. Yes, I have spent some of my own money on books. BUT…that is not the only resource I have used. I also use donations (money & books) to build my classroom library. Are you ready to hear those 6 ways? Check them out below.
Fundraising and Grant Opportunities
It’s a sad truth that we have to seek out money for our classrooms. We work so hard every day to help our students become readers. Here are a few of the ways I’ve found success in monetary/book donations for my classroom library.
- Donors Choose: If you are not familiar with DonorsChoose.org, check it out after you finish reading. You create a project (make a realistic amount), share it with your network (even on social media), and watch the support pour in. Friends, family, and even strangers might be willing to to help build your library.
- Grant Opportunities: Keep an eye out for grants that are focused on reading or libraries. I’ve written grants to local bookstores, banks, foundations, and even the PTO. There are a lot of grants available just for teachers. It takes a bit of research and effort, but the rewards are worth it.
Shop the Sales to Build Your Classroom Library
One of my favorite things to do is to shop. Buying books can be very costly though. So, how do I save money and build my classroom library? Easy- shop sales!
- Thrift Stores & Garage Sales: Search thrift stores, garage sales, and secondhand bookshops for deals. You’d be surprised at the quality books you can find at a fraction of the price.
- Library Sales & Clearance Aisles: Keep an eye on your local library’s sales and the clearance section at bookstores. You can snag some amazing deals. Sometimes, libraries even give away books for free!
- Book Fair: Our school book fair is one of my favorite places to buy books for cheap. I check out the books before it is open to anyone else. I look for books that are on sale and place them in a stack to purchase at the end of the fair.
Book Swaps & Donations
One final way you can get books for free is to do a book swap or ask for donations.
- Book Swap: You can swap books with fellow teachers to help mix up what you have. Just make sure that they are even trades.
- Donations: Ask students and families for book donations. Students can bring in books they have outgrown or no longer want. It’s a great way to get them involved in building the classroom library.
Remember, it’s not about the quantity of books, it’s about the quality of books. With a little creativity and community support, you can build an incredible classroom library!
Love this journey for you.
