As a secondary English teacher, there is the pressure to have an amazing classroom library. And while it is best practice to turn your students into readers, you shouldn't have to carry the pressure of fully funding it. Ain't nobody got money for that.
A teacher's salary is already utilized for all the things...and we don't think it has to be (or should be) when it comes to buying books.
What is a teacher to do when they know they will not receive funding from their district?
1. GRANTS
If you live in close proximity to a grant being offered, you're more likely to receive the grant. If anyone, like us, is near Cincinnati, try the Learning Links Grant.
There are usually grants that are funded through local or state organizations and will come up with a quick search.
Be on the lookout for a blog where we outline some of the biggest and best grants available to you and how to apply!
2. AMAZON WISH LIST
Your district may or may not allow crowd funding, but we have seen colleagues build awesome library space by putting their wish list on social media at the start of the school year. Consider putting it up again as the holidays approach. Many folks will be in the giving spirit and what better way to fill your heart than fill a teacher's classroom with books?!
3. GOODWILL & THRIFT STORES
This is how our libraries got their start. Whenever you get a chance, peruse your local thrift store to see what you can find. Generally, the highest priced book is $1!
PRO TIP: Whenever you're on vacation, especially if it is a tourist hot spot, visit their
thrift stores. We've found that many people buy a book for vacay and dump it before leaving. I came home loaded down with books from Hilton Head last year!
4. First Book Marketplace
If you work in a district that offers Title 1, you qualify to purchase from First Book Marketplace. This online book shop has been a godsend for our classroom library. At times, we do make a purchase (most titles are at least 50% off market value), but just as often, First Book sends a coupon code for totally free books!
We recommend always keeping a cart stocked because the coupons move fast!
If you haven't signed up for First Book, leave this blog and sign up now...seriously.
Once you get books for your classroom library, utilize our book label freebie for easy set-up. Click here to see how we use the labels in our own classrooms.
Check out our store for helpful resources to get your through the school year!
Stay weird,
~Brittany
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