A novel concept: Andover Elementary hosts summer library hours to serve students

The libraries at Andover Elementary School have been buzzing with excitement on Wednesday mornings this summer, thanks to creative thinking and planning to coordinate a system to open the school libraries to students and their families over the summer months.

Why it matters: Providing increased access to books and reading materials over the summer months fosters a love for reading and improves literacy skills for students.

What it looks like: Students have been visiting the school to read, check out books, say hello to teachers who are volunteering their time to support check-out processes, and take in unique story time opportunities with special guests! Frequent visitors include students in the summer Adventures Plus school-age child care program, neighborhood daycare groups, in addition to parents and grandparents visiting with students. 

By the numbers: During summer library hours, an average of 500 books are checked out by students each week.

Open library hours also include storytime sessions with books read by special guests. Guest readers have included Andover High School football players and coaches, the school principal and staff members, and new superintendent of the Anoka-Hennepin School District, Greg Cole. View photos from open library hours at the school.