Showcase: Sparking a love for reading at Big Picture Learning Schenectady with a new library

Grant funding provided by SCSDEF allowed for the creation of an onsite library for Alison Bonheim’s Big Picture Learning Schenectady, currently housed at Washington Irving Adult & Continuing Education Center (WIEC). This onsite library has quickly become more than a place to house books; it’s becoming a hub of curiosity, community, and learning. Grant funding has allowed administrators to work alongside our 9th and 10th-grade students to create a collection they’re truly excited about. This project has not only put books in students’ hands but sparked enthusiasm for reading and exploration.

From the start, student choice has been at the heart of this initiative. Students and teachers were surveyed about the kinds of books they wanted to see in the library. The students then dove into the process, researching titles, comparing prices, and carefully curating the final order. Watching the books they’d selected arrive at school was, for many students, a magical moment. Some couldn’t wait to start reading and devoured three or four books in just a few days. This newfound excitement has energized independent reading, with every 9th grader now checking out books daily as part of their routine. The 10th graders are eagerly working on their selections, too.

Beyond reading, this initiative has introduced students to the world of library science. Students scanned books into the library site, carefully tagged and sorted titles by genre, and even helped manage the logistical challenge of moving shelves and books up seven flights of stairs. With the help of the school’s amazing custodians, students finished the job and turned the vision for this library into reality. This hands-on participation has even inspired two students to start exploring internships in library sciences!

The impact, however, goes far beyond logistics. The Open Door Bookstore, led by Angela Tryon, was an essential partner in guiding the team through this process with expertise and encouragement. Their support has been invaluable in helping build something truly special. Together, they’ve created a space where students can explore their interests, discover new stories, and foster a lifelong love of reading.

What we’ve learned is clear: student choice in selecting their reading materials is incredibly powerful. By giving them a voice in this process, there has been an overwhelming increase in independent reading and engagement. Watching students light up as they interact with their library is an inspiration and a reminder of why this work is so important. Here’s to many more stories, discoveries, and dreams sparked by the new library!