Setting up new elementary school libraries is no small feat, but with the right support, it can be a transformative experience for students and educators alike. This was the case for Fitchburg Public Schools in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, where the establishment of first-ever libraries at its elementary schools marked a significant milestone. Dr. Kim Cochrane, the district’s Library Media Specialist, played a pivotal role in this journey, leveraging the expertise and resources of Follett Content and Titlewave^® to bring this vision to life.

The Vision Becomes Reality

When Fitchburg Public Schools administrators approved the creation of new libraries, Dr. Cochrane knew exactly where to turn. Having used Titlewave^® for several years, she was confident in Follett Content’s ability to support this ambitious project.

“Immediately after finding out the new libraries were going to be a reality, I reached out to Follett Content,” Dr. Cochrane recalled. “I knew Follett Content had the knowledge base and the personnel to help us tackle this huge project.”

The project involved three campuses: McKay and Reingold Elementary Schools (K-5) and South Street Early Learning Center (preschool and kindergarten). Each school was starting from scratch, requiring thousands of books to fill their new libraries.

Curating the Perfect Collection

The first step in this monumental task was obtaining book lists. The Follett Content Curation Team provided tailored lists for each library level, which Dr. Cochrane meticulously reviewed. As an expert in children’s literature, she was well-equipped to assess the suitability of the collections.

“I made very few changes to the lists, as the books were mostly exactly right for our students,” she said. “The collections were well balanced between fictional and informational books, and reading and interest levels, plus included books appropriate for our extremely diverse student population.”

This careful curation ensured that the new libraries would offer a rich and diverse selection of books, catering to the varied interests and backgrounds of the students.

The White Glove Service

Beyond the content expertise, Follett Content’s white glove service played a crucial role in simplifying the setup process. This service included grade-appropriate, colorful signs and genre labels, making it easy for the schools to organize the books once they were delivered.

“Having everything ready to go right onto the shelves was hugely helpful,” Dr. Cochrane noted. “I couldn’t believe how clear and simple it could be to get so many boxes onto the correct shelves quickly and easily.”

Even when challenges arose, such as having more books than shelves, the Follett Content team was there to assist. Steve Short, Follett Shelving Team Lead, provided invaluable support, ensuring that everything fit perfectly.

“I have never dealt with anyone from a company of Follett Content’s size and breadth who was so keen to help me with everything I needed,” Dr. Cochrane said. “Steve was able to make it all work.”

Impact on Students and Educators

The new libraries have had a profound impact on the school community. Anna Hill, Principal of Reingold Elementary School, witnessed firsthand the dedication Follett Content brought to the project.

“Dr. Cochrane was able to focus more on the students in front of her than on setting up the collections themselves because of the efforts from Follett Content,” Hill said.

Helen O’Hara, Media Specialist Teacher at Reingold Elementary School, highlighted the significance of the new libraries for student achievement. “It means the absolute world to student achievement to have updated library collections at every elementary school,” she said. “Our school had no functioning library collection prior to our partnership with Follett Content, and simply having access to a strong, diverse collection is a huge difference.”

The presence of a well-stocked library has fostered a sense of pride and ownership among students. They now have access to free books, which many would not have otherwise. This access has not only improved their reading skills but also their overall attitude toward learning.

“Students who have struggled in my class have absolutely shown a more positive attitude after becoming comfortable library users,” O’Hara observed.

A Lasting Legacy

The establishment of these new libraries has created a buzz of excitement among students about reading. Hill noted that students now see reading as a pleasurable activity, which has led to increased independent practice of reading strategies learned in class, ultimately improving academic achievement.

“Having books that serve as a mirror into their own lives, or a window into the experiences of others, will improve the feeling of belonging and empathy within our school community,” Hill said.

For Dr. Cochrane, seeing this project through from start to finish has been a career highlight. “I am proud to think I had something to do with whatever success we have had bringing libraries back to the Fitchburg Public Schools,” she said. “As for Follett Content, it is big enough to take on a huge project like this yet small enough to have the personal touch needed to make the customer feel comfortable and supported every step of the way.”

Conclusion

The journey of setting up new elementary school libraries at Fitchburg Public Schools is a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact of having the right resources and support. With Follett Content and Titlewave^®, Dr. Cochrane and her team were able to create vibrant, diverse, and welcoming library spaces that will benefit students for years to come. This project not only underscores the importance of access to quality literature but also highlights how a well-executed library setup can transform a school community.

Looking to open a new school library or refresh your current one? Follett Content is here to help! Learn more about our library services.

SPONSORED BY