The staff in the Library Media Center provides students with the resources and materials to promote the love of reading. We encourage the children to become independent, life-long learners. Each year brings a new focus on children’s literature and advances in technology,  and the Benson Media Center is ready to meet these challenges.

LIBRARY MEDIA PROGRAM

The Benson Primary Library is an extension of the classroom.  The goal of our program is to work with the classroom teachers to foster the joy of reading in all children by supplementing and extending the curriculum.  Working together as a team,  we are able to strengthen and enhance student learning. 

The schedule for classes in the library can vary,  as it is based on student needs and interests.  In addition to regular weekly visits, 

• small groups of first and second graders visit the library for curriculum extension opportunities,
• classes come to the library with their teachers for curriculum connections and/or special research projects, and
• the library staff facilitates Benson@Bedtime, a unique reading opportunity for students to record a story and then “call in” to listen!

BOOK CHECK OUT

All students come to the library with their class once a week for a literature-related activity and to check out books. Early Childhood students check out one book per week.  K-PREP and Kindergarten may borrow two books at a time. First and second graders begin with two books,  and then increase to three or even four as they demonstrate responsibility by returning their “check outs” on time each week.  Teachers share the responsibility with Media Center staff to assist students in making book selections appropriate for their reading and/or interest level.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITES

The Media Center at Benson Primary School is always looking for an extra hand.  As an adult volunteer you might check out books for the students, help shelve Media Center materials, listen to a small group of children read aloud, assist during a game or writing activity, laminate,  cut out letters for bulletin boards … The possibilities are endless! Please give volunteering in library your thoughtful consideration.

Be sure to check out the ever-growing and updated Benson Primary School

Media Center website http://www.itasca.k12.il.us/benson/mediacenter/index.htm.

We are focused on enhancing this avenue of communication to share ideas and information with the families and friends of Benson Primary School. At the site you will find samplings of class projects,  author website links, parent bookshelf listings, appropriate activity websites, and much, much more!

As always,  if you have any comments, suggestions,  or questions,  please feel free to contact me areu...@itasca.k12.il.us or 630/773-0554.

Over 300 students come through my “classroom”  door each week!  Let the reading begin!

Amy S. Reuter

Media Center Director/Teacher