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235 Hope Road, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724  /  732.542.4777

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Lower School Library Features New Upgrades

There were many exciting changes made to the Searle Lower School Library, overseen by Lower School Librarian Mr. Michael Steele. The Lower School, in beginners through fifth grade, have been enjoying all of the new features and opportunities that these upgrades provide. Research provides resounding feedback that shows having a dedicated library, as well as a full-time librarian, can help students excel academically. 

“I am proud to work with a community that has leaned into the commitment of developing a strong lower school library.” said Lower School Head Dr. Pamela Long.  “A strong library instills confidence in reading, which is fundamental to learning, personal growth, and enjoyment.”

Some of the new Ranney School Searle Library updated features include:
  • Chapter and picture book sections re-organized by genre make it easier for students to find high-interest leisure reading materials. The frames for the genre signs were possible because of donations. Several parents and grandparents also helped organize and label the books with genre labels. 
  • A Beginning reader section with 80 bins of books organized by series is a favorite spot in the library for kindergarten and first graders. The bins were possible because of donations.
  • Two new magazine racks organize and display the library’s periodicals subscriptions. These were also possible because of donations.
  • New soft seating where students can relax and enjoy their books is a massive hit across all grade levels.
When comparing schools with and without librarians, a Michigan study indicated that the presence of a qualified school librarian can make a tremendous difference in reading achievement. This difference ranges from eight percent for high schools to 35 percent for elementary schools. For instance, schools with librarians have 35 percent more fourth graders who score proficient or above than schools without librarians. 

Over 21 state studies confirm that school librarians and school libraries support students in academic achievement, lifelong learning, 21st century skills, and reading. A strong school library has up-to-date books, materials, equipment and technology; includes regular collaboration between classroom teachers and school librarians; and supports the development of digital literacy skills.

“The school library provides a wealth of curriculum-based resources as well as opportunities for students to learn at a personal level of inquiry, outside the assigned curriculum,” said Susie Goodin in a CSLAL Journal article.

Ranney Schools’ parents and grandparents also play an important role in helping to make the Searle Library a wonderful experience for students. From donating books and volunteering time to supporting the annual bookfair sponsored by the Ranney School Parents’ Association and contributing to the Ranney Fund, the school’s annual fundraising campaign, the community helps make ongoing enhancements possible. 

“This community’s commitment to creating a comprehensive Lower School library is greatly appreciated,” said Mr. Steele. “There is an abundance of joy for reading as evident from all those happy faces! Thank you!!!”
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Ranney School

235 Hope Road
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Tel. 732.542.4777
Our mission is to know and value every child, nurturing intellectual curiosity and confidence, and inspiring students to lead honorably, think creatively, and contribute meaningfully to society. 

We envision Ranney School as a nurturing learning community, in which families, faculty, alumni, and all of Ranney’s constituents collaborate to know and value every child, foster individual talents, sustain powerful connections between children and adults, and graduate resilient, globally-minded citizens.