Each student brought in a book they had already read to be included in the swap
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP - Some 800 books poured into Birches Elementary School, creating an inviting library that was offered up to all grades in the school's first-ever book swap.
Organizer Mary Jo Babiowski, the school's BSI interventionist, advertised the activity as a kick-off for Read Across America month and asked all 455 students to bring in at least one book that they had read to be included in the swap.
Classes were then invited in by grade level to choose one book that they would like to read. After all students had selected at least one book, lucky students were selected by raffle to select an additional book to enjoy.
Every child was encouraged to participate so that everyone would be able to swap and share a new piece of reading. The activity was used to begin the school's annual Dr. Seuss activities and to stress the importance of reading.
In addition to at least one book that was new to them, every student received a book mark and Dr. Seuss stickers.