Off the Shelf: Activities for October 2025

Welcome to a new “Off the Shelf” blog post highlighting important key dates, ideas, and activities for October that you can incorporate into your library lesson plans or classroom activities. My goal is to help you stay organized and inspired as you plan your month, making it simpler to bring exciting and meaningful activities to…

Skulls!

Author: Blair Thornburgh

Illustrator: Scott Campbell

Summary: This smart, skull-positive story cheerfully dispels any fears kids might have about their skeletons, changing our view of skulls from spooky to a fascinating, cool, and crucial part of our bodies.

Off the Shelf: Activities for September 2025

Welcome to a new “Off the Shelf” blog post highlighting important key dates, ideas, and activities for September that you can incorporate into your library lesson plans or classroom activities. My goal is to help you stay organized and inspired as you plan your month, making it simpler to bring exciting and meaningful activities to…

The Day the Crayons Made Friends

Author: Drew Daywalt

Illustrator: Oliver Jeffers

Summary: Duncan's crayons have disappeared! They have gone exploring in his room, had exciting adventures and made new friends. Will Duncan be able to get them back in the box?

Creating More Independent Library Users-Part 1

Helping Students Navigate the Library Independently: My Non-Fiction Footprint Pathway This spring brought some big changes to my school district. Due to significant budget deficits, all elementary library assistants were cut. I’m thrilled that my incredible assistant was able to transition into another position at our school! However, that leaves me solo in the library—with…