Upcycling GKB Library Books
Ms. Disque is a high school teacher from Indiana who said, "This is the first time I've done this kind of activity, but I assure you it won't be my last."
Just over 40 9-12th grade students participated in the service-learning project Upcycling GKB Library Books. After examining community needs through the Learning to Give lesson My Community, My World, Disque's students planned, quoted, constructed, installed, and filled Little Free Libraries for three living communities in the area.
Through research and discussion, students realized the public library was not accessible on foot by many people in the middle or outskirts of town and the library fees were sometimes more than many community members could afford. The Little Free Libraries were a solution to the problem that provided both free options and encouraged reading.
Mr. Slain and Mr. Kosmoski’s construction class built the libraries and lead the teams who did construction and installation. This project was a big team effort.
"Oh my gosh, I live here. I am going to come get this book when I get off the bus today," one student said. "My niece lives in this trailer park," said another. "I can pick out a book to put in here to get with her later."
The goal moving forward is to maintain the libraries with up-to-date selections and regular upkeep. The mini-grant was used to build each library unit. Through this project, Ms. Disque's students became aware of the need to provide reading options for all.
As Ms. Disque said, her "students were driven, considerate and truly demonstrating empathy for others. These are essential character traits for productive citizens. Service learning helps develop all parts of the student."