Taking Library Programs Outside
Library programs serve their entire school community, and manage resources that need to be shared by everyone at the school. How can school libraries keep their services available during the COVID-19 pandemic, with physical distancing measures in place to protect school librarians and their students? Many library functions can be moved outdoors. Here are a few initial ideas:
Book check out. Set up a no-touch book check out system, where students reserve their chosen library books online (or via email). The school librarian may then be able to assemble the chosen books on a cart that is specific to each class, and bring the cart outside for students to use during their session.
The Outdoor Learning Resources page includes suggested lessons and curricula, many of which include fabulous suggested books for students. Send us an email if you have books you would like to suggest!
Reading areas. Instead of meeting indoors in the existing library, schools can set up outdoor spaces for students to gather to read their books and meet with the librarian in the fresh air. Classes might meet at picnic tables under shade umbrellas, or under the shade of existing trees, sitting on simple, portable seat cushions, benches, or chairs.
We are gathering a group of school librarians to work on additional ideas for taking library programs outside. If you would like to join the conversation with fellow librarians, please click this link to send us an email.
© drew Kelly Photography
© Green Schoolyards America, Alexandria, Virginia
National COVID-19 Outdoor Learning Initiative
The National COVID-19 Outdoor Learning Initiative supports schools and districts around the country in their efforts to reopen safely and equitably using outdoor spaces as strategic, cost-effective solutions to increase physical distancing capacity onsite and provide access to abundant fresh air. The Initiative seeks to equitably improve learning, mental and physical health, and happiness for children and adults using an affordable, time-tested outdoor approach to keeping schools open during a pandemic.
The National COVID-19 Outdoor Learning Initiative was co-founded in May 2020 by Green Schoolyards America, The Lawrence Hall of Science, San Mateo County Office of Education, and Ten Strands. It has now grown to include more than 20 other partner organizations that are collaborating to build a national movement, hundreds of participating volunteers, and foundation partners.
