Read It Forward

February 1, 2014

Kay and eight other school librarians from Round Rock, Texas, pioneered a reading program several years ago that should delight teachers and librarians nationwide. The Read It Forward (RIF) initiative is simple, according to the author, and possible even in economically challenged districts. In short, the library obtains multiple copies of a single book and places them around the school for students to find, read, and pass on to others. Ideally, everyone-students, teachers, administrators, staff-will have read the book by the date of a culminating event, which may be a dance, an author's visit, a library "read-in," a cooking contest, or anything else the school might deem appropriate and affordable. This slim guide provides steps for selecting an appealing title; detailed programming ideas to increase enthusiasm; and directions for obtaining, promoting, and distributing the books. Kay also offers advice on how to track participation in applications such as Google Docs and SurveyMonkey. An annotated list of 20 recommended titles, with curricular connections, will help even the busiest librarians get started. In its most basic manifestation, RIF is a joyous awy to get students reading and thinking about books. An energetic and inspired librarian might turn it into the happening of the year.-Denise Ryan, Middlesex Middle School, Darien, CT

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