Back to School Book Drive Brings In 100 New Books

One hundred brand-new books have found a home in the TCS library thanks to “Bring a Book Back to School,” the school’s second annual book drive.

The aim of the initiative is to keep the TCS library collection updated, so that the space is always stocked with exciting new books and fresh copies of much-loved classics. Participating families chose a book to donate from a list curated by TCS teachers and library volunteers. 

 “Thanks to so many families’ participation, there is an infusion of new books, and we have also been able to replace worn copies of books with new copies,” says library volunteer Betty Kaczynski. 

“The TCS family participation in our book drive has been outstanding,” adds fellow volunteer Leigh Podlesny. “It’s a great example of how small acts make a big difference.”

Along with Betty and Leigh, library volunteers Brian Kirkbride and Marie Martino have helped to shelve the new books, spruce up the space, and create appealing displays that invite students from Kindergarten through 8th grade to pluck a book off the shelves and start reading.

With the school year under way, the TCS library serves as a hub for self-selected reading. TCS teachers are careful to guard time for independent reading as a routine part of the school day. 

“What’s so important about independent reading is that kids choose the books,” says teacher Lori Nitzsche. “We want them to read and discuss books critically and analytically, which they do during read-alouds, book groups, or when there is assigned reading. But we also want them to just enjoy getting lost in a good book. Reading for pleasure leads to more reading.”

“Studies have shown that children are more likely to read a book outside of school for fun if they are reading a book at school for fun,” adds Academic Programs Coordinator Gloria Mitchell. “All of the reading that young people do, in and out of school, contributes to reading volume, which affects everything from their cognitive abilities to their vocabulary development to their knowledge of the world.” 

As Head of School Michelle Candelaria-Dunstan explains, the TCS library fits into the bigger picture of the school’s approach to literacy. 

“One of the most important things we can do as a learning community is create the conditions for young people to fall in love with reading,” she says. “When children have access to wonderful books, time to read, and the freedom to choose what speaks to them, reading becomes more than a skill -- it becomes part of who they are.”

The TCS community is grateful to all of the volunteers, this year and in previous years, who have generously donated their time to ensure that our library continues to inspire and excite young readers.

“All of the parent volunteers have been great about showing up to keep the library books shelved and the space tidy, ready for readers,” says Betty Kaczynski. “It’s been great to be a part of such a team.”