Creating a Welcoming School Library

What staff will know, value and be able to do:

• Demonstrate how to notice and acknowledge every student with eye contact and a smile to create a welcoming impression

• Develop and apply patron ‘radar’ while working on the library floor to identify students who need help or wish to engage

• Identify and remove clutter from the library entrance to create a clear and tidy first impression

• Recognize how first impressions shape student perceptions and influence their decision to explore the library

• Understand why books are a top priority to make a good impression for students

• Recognize common library prejudices and value how strategic book displays and staff engagement can actively counter them and attract new students

• Select appropriate books for a showcase display using cover appeal, age-appeal, and visual contrast to attract diverse readers

• Create an attractive face-forward display using retail merchandising techniques to make books visible and tempting to browsers

• Apply merchandising skills to spine-on shelving by positioning individual titles and stands to catch the eye and guide readers

• Plan and build a daily routine that integrates welcoming students, maintaining displays, sharing library information and engaging with patrons