Utilizing the Classroom Library to Motivate Students

In this research inquiry, I focused on my student teaching experiences in an urban Kindergarten classroom where I observed students developed multiple reading needs, wants, and interests. I investigated how to use the classroom library to motivate students in their learning and personal reading. I developed and implemented a plan that used student activity centers, questionnaires, and lesson plans that utilized my cooperating teacher’s classroom library. I analyzed data using content analysis (Neuendorf, 2002). Classroom activities involve listening, implementing word workstations that featured books in the classroom library, using book displays to drive instruction, and incorporating literature in lessons. They were examined through student inquiries and interviews. My findings support that motivation is influenced by the way the classroom library is presented and how well it is utilized to engage students in reading.