Leveled Library

One of the most essential components of a successful reading workshop is a well-stocked classroom library. A classroom library should contain books from a wide variety of topics, authors, series, genres, text structures (picture books, graphic novels, narratives, information books, etc.), as well as books written on a wide range of levels. Leveled libraries allow teachers to easily check to see that children are selecting books that match their reading level. While some teachers favor displaying lettered levels on the front cover of the book in color coordinated bins, we advocate for subtle leveling whereby the letter is written on the inside cover of the book and children are taught to make authentic choices that reflect their unique interests as readers. Leveled books are intended to facilitate the teacher’s role in matching readers and books. Labeled, lettered bins are most appropriate for school book rooms that only teachers can access.