11 Categories to Consider for a Diverse & Inclusive Classroom Library

Building an inclusive classroom library is one of the best ways to promote a positive classroom community where all readers feel seen, heard and understood. As you work to select titles that ensure representation, it’s important to consider many different types of diversity.

Race & Ethnicity

While race refers to what someone looks like and their […]

By |January 19th, 2023|Diverse Books|2 Comments

Why Incidental Diversity is Important in Classroom Libraries + Booklist

The movement for more diversity and inclusion in fiction isn’t new, but because of current events and demands for social justice and equality, it has become more urgent. Not only are people more aware and talking about it, but new diverse books are also being published with more regularity. A significant difference between these books […]

A Letter to You, From Mr. Schu

Popular children’s book author John Schu, aka Mr. Schu, sent us a letter, and it’s addressed to you! Read his thoughts on the benefits of read alouds and sharing stories in the classroom and learn more about his recent books.

Dear Colleague,  

I am writing you this message on October 11, 2022, from 32,000 feet […]

22 Best Books of 2022 for Classroom Libraries

2022 gave us the gift of amazing books and series across countless topics, written by authors from many cultures and experiences. Our literacy experts had to make some tough choices to narrow the list to 22 of the best recommended books to include in classroom libraries. Check out our favorite educational, thought-provoking, touching and funny […]

Books That Help Students Engage in Democracy

We ask 18-year-olds to vote without much direction on how it all works or why it’s important to participate. Help prepare students to be active participants in the political process and engage in civil discourse as adults by sharing books that teach students about democracy.

1. The Bill of Rights by Kirsten Chang

Interest level: K-3After the […]

By |November 3rd, 2022|Book Lists + Recommendations|0 Comments

25 Books From Native American Voices for Native American Heritage Month

As you grow your classroom library and use Booksource Classroom’s LibraryLens® tool to improve its diversity, make sure you are including books from Native American authors and illustrators. Today’s most influential titles reflect both historic and current events experienced by Native Americans. These books often raise awareness for important contemporary Native American causes. Including more […]

By |October 27th, 2022|Book Lists + Recommendations, Diverse Books|0 Comments

14 Spooky, Scary and Silly Halloween Books to Engage Readers

With Halloween just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to share these spooky, high-interest titles with students. When kids connect with the books they’re reading, they’re more likely to view reading as a fun and positive experience, which sets them up to be stronger readers and more successful students across all subject areas. Add […]

31 Books to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

All students should feel represented by the stories in their classroom library. That’s why Booksource is committed to sharing books that reflect many different cultural backgrounds and experiences. Consider adding these books with Hispanic characters written by Hispanic authors to your collection.

1. Across The Bayby Carlos Aponte

Interest level: P-2 Author-illustrator Carlos Aponte takes readers […]

By |September 15th, 2022|Book Lists + Recommendations, Diverse Books, Uncategorized|0 Comments

14 Books to Engage Struggling Readers

When students struggle with reading, they may feel discouraged and avoid it altogether. Sometimes all it takes to transform a struggling reader into an engaged, successful reader is introducing them to the right book or series! Discover 14 illustrated titles and novels in verse that will keep the attention of even the most reluctant […]

How Trade Books Make Learning Phonics Fun

While decodables are an excellent opportunity for in-context phonics practice, these books can become repetitive when they are not paired with more engaging texts. That’s why trade books are the perfect supplement! They give students a chance to practice letters and sounds while experiencing books they enjoy.

Fun Ways Educators Can Use Books in […]