In my last post, I discussed how to manage students while they are waiting to return or check out library books. Today’s post will show you how to implement table stations as a system to engage students AFTER they have checked out their new library books.

I like having students check in/out their books at the start of their library visit. Afterwards, we transition into the lesson and follow up activity. I found that a few classes would get off task while others were still trying to check out. So, I tested out several table activities last year to see if I could find a way to engage them while they waited. I ended up with 3 main types of table stations that fit the interests of my students: Drawing Stations, Puzzle Stations, and Stencil Stations. Boy, has it helped tremendously!

Let’s Talk Containers…

I’m so happy that I purchased these teal utility caddies from Michaels. They have 2 large open sections which is perfect. On one side I put books to read; on the other side I put activities that students can do. The caddies I purchased at Michaels now have a divider in the second section but I found something similar to what I purchased on Amazon here. (These are affiliate links. If you purchase the caddies through my links I will earn a small commission)

As you know, students occasionally don’t bring their library books back. While the rest of the students check out new library books., those that forgot their books can sit at a table and either read the books or do the table activity. I rotate the teal containers with Fiction and Non-Fiction books, and each teal container has a certain theme or topic for the books.

Let’s Talk Stations…

#1: Drawing Stations

The first type of table activity I have are “Drawing Stations”. These have a variety of “How to Draw” books along with cardstock cut into long rectangular bookmarks. In addition, I have baskets of notebook paper and scrap paper that they can use for drawing as well. Some of the students’ favorite drawing books are from this series by Christopher Hart . (Affiliate Link)

#2: Puzzle Stations

The next type of table activity I have are “Puzzle Stations”. These have an assortment of puzzles for the students to explore. My students absolutely LOVE Rubics Cubes, so I have 2-3 at each of the puzzle stations. I loved this assortment of 15 Rubics Cubes found on Amazon. (Affiliate Link) They have been a HUGE SUCCESS this year! I also have one Sliding Number Puzzle (Affiliate Link) but I am planning on getting more because they all want to try to solve it!

I have several other Shape Puzzles like the Magnetic Somo Cube Puzzle (Affiliate Link) I’m planning on buying these Magnetic Puzzle Building Cubes (Affiliate Link). My students will love trying to figure out the different artists, and our Art Teacher is excited by these as well!

#3: Stencil Stations

The third type of table activities as “Stencil Stations”. These have an assortment of stencils that students can use to be create their own drawings, stories, or bookmarks. I purchased this Drawing Stencils Set for Kids (54 Piece) (Affiliate Link) and have gotten donation for other stencils as well.

#4: I Spy Station

Finally, Table #10 is an I Spy station. I have several I Spy books and the I Spy Aquarium. I purchased this small Reptile Terrarium (Affiliate Link) to use which I love because it’s acrylic instead of glass. I change the theme out each month or season. As a result, I’m always looking for new things I can use at Target dollar aisles, Dollar store, Oriental Trading, and Amazon. Surprisingly, a few of my students have also brought in an item or two for me to use for future themes!

My friend and fellow librarian, Jacqui Daves Isser, created these really cool kits that you can purchase on her website to create your own I Spy Aquarium for your classroom or library! It’s great if you need ideas on how to get started. Here’s my display for January!