A Few of My Favorite Library Things!

After recently rewatching The Sound of Music, I felt inspired to share some of my favorite library things! Today, I’m excited to highlight a few tools and library-related items that I absolutely love. As a school librarian, I’m always on the lookout for resources that make my job easier, engage students, and inject a little fun into the daily routine. From organizing must-read lists to providing hands-on activities, these tools have truly become staples in my library setup!

Shelf Label
I’ve worked in a variety of libraries, each with shelves of different sizes and configurations. As a result, I’ve had to get creative with labeling. Demco offers great options for this, but they can be a bit pricey. That’s why I found this 100-piece kit to be a fantastic solution for fully labeling my shelves. It gave me the flexibility to clearly mark sections for students, making navigation easier. This was especially helpful when I was genrefying my collection—I could easily add the labels to keep everything organized and student-friendly!

Reference Organizer
(Option 1, Option 2, Option 3)
Read-alikes are a big part of school library culture. Students often ask, “Do you have a book like…?” Being able to provide and display read-alike lists is key, but it can be tricky if wall space is limited (which was my challenge!). So, I had to get creative. One solution I loved was using Reference Organizers to hold my visual reading lists. They kept everything organized and within easy reach. Need some lists? Check out Melissa Corey’s free, editable read-alike lists—a great resource for customizing to fit your library’s needs!

Button Maker
(Option 1, Option 2)
Button makers are a great way to engage students, whether for a reading challenge, club, or just for fun! The first option makes multiple button sizes, which I preferred because I love multitools! The second option is more affordable but only makes one size. Both require consumables—top, bottom, and pin parts—but seeing the pure joy on a student’s face when they make or receive a button in the library? Absolutely priceless.

Really Loud Librarians
Really Loud Librarians is a board game I was recently gifted by a friend, and it’s been a fantastic addition to my collection. I often collaborate with a colleague to introduce board games as learning tools for educators, and this one brings so much joy and excitement to the table. The gameplay is exciting and fast-paced, making it perfect for all ages. It’s a word-shouting game that guarantees laughter, for ages 8 and up.

Cart of Many Wonders
While I have plenty of library carts, there are times when I just need a way to keep track of essential items—like a computer charger, pens, tissues, and other supplies. You name it, and a student has probably asked for it! It’s like having a desk on wheels, storing all those little things you constantly need. I loved it so much that I even gifted one to a fellow teacher trainer. I’ve never seen so many flair pens in my life, but it brings her so much joy!  Another one but slightly cheaper.

Neon Library/Literacy Signs
Books are Magical, Read Books & Be Kind, Reading will Take You Everywhere, Let’s Read, Read Books Change The World,  Glow Lightbox with 100 Letters
There’s a wide variety of neon library signs out there, and I love how they can transform the vibe of a library space. You can find these signs at numerous retailers, and I’ve included some of my favorites. If you’re interested, you can discover even more options here.

Foldable Wagon
(Option 1, Option 2)
I can’t think of a time I haven’t needed a wagon in the library! When I worked at the elementary level, I used one daily to collect books each morning. It gave me a reason to move around the building, connect with students, and build relationships. Plus, it allowed me to check in all the books before students arrived for class. Sometimes, I’d even have student helpers who loved pitching in—especially when they got to ride the elevator at my two-floor school! As I transitioned to secondary, I found myself needing a wagon more than ever. Between moving supplies from one end of the building to the other, or transporting things during pep rallies and events, a wagon became indispensable. I ended up with one at school and one at home—because there was always something that needed to be hauled from point A to point B!

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In conclusion, these tools and items have truly enriched my library space and enhanced the experiences of my students. From practical solutions like shelf labels and reference organizers to engaging activities with button makers and board games, each resource contributes to a vibrant and welcoming environment. The joy and excitement they bring not only make my job easier but also foster a love for reading and learning among my students. Whether it’s a neon sign that brightens the atmosphere or a well-stocked cart of essentials, these favorites remind me of the magic that a well-curated library can create. If you’re looking to elevate your own library setup, I hope you find inspiration in these suggestions. Happy exploring!