The collection exists to meet the needs, interests and abilities of its users. If we are to meet these, then we need to know what those needs, interests and abilities are.
Thinking Reading is a survey that asks readers 20 questions about their current reading and what they like to read. It is designed as a starting point for teacher librarians and teachers to develop their own reading surveys to determine the needs and interests of their own students. The collection of such data will enable them to make informed decisions about collection development and arrangement so not only are the needs of their current clients met but also to give insight into the preferences of the long tail – those who think that the library has nothing to offer them.
Tracking Reading allows younger readers to set goals and track their own reading to see how it develops and changes as they identify those elements of story that most appeal to them.
Growing Reading offers a way for young readers to keep track of the stories they want to read based on recommendations, reviews and other sources.
For more about encouraging students to read, read The Reader Leader’s Hat