Plan a Fun Classroom Library Area

From my last post, you know that I went completely deskless. I said I would post pictures, however, my room changed so I could be closer to my team (and away from the hand dryer sound going all day in my old classroom). So...I am in the stages of tweaking and planning the classroom for the upcoming school year and realize many of you will be doing the same.

This post is focused on a collection of suggestions, links and ideas for setting up your classroom library in the deskless classroom. Enjoy!

First, is this easy crate bench is from Briana at the Sun, Sand & Second Grade blog. With 2 foam pads, some zip ties, fabric and crates, this is a great option that I am considering. I am also considering rows of these for the area in the middle of my classroom in front of the Promthean Board for large group modeled/shared lessons.
Easy Crate Bench Tutorial - Click Photo

Next, is this WONDERFUL classroom website that features "book buddies!" Third graders loved my little stuffed owls and now I know how I am going to use them this upcoming school year. Students grab a "book buddy" for independent reading. Love love love this idea from Jennifer White's Blog, First Grade Blue Skies. 

Instead of these stuffed animals (they are book characters...) I will put in my owl stuffed animals to fit my owl themed classroom (O.W.L. Outstanding Wise Learners)

Check out these "21 Awesomely Creative Reading Spaces for the Classroom" on  BuzzFeed. Some of my personal favorites from the list are:

Laura Santos's Garden themed reading area! How cool! 

Schoolgirl Style's idea is very kid friendly and so colorful! Instead of plain lanterns, I have these lanterns that I converted into owls. 

The reading area in the classroom should be a place where students can actually read, is inviting, and kid-friendly. Also, the books should be easily accessible. Some of these ideas may not fit in my classroom, and I will need to think about how to adapt one of these ideas to make it work. Also, managing the space in my deskless classroom will be critical because I will need to arrange some sort of rotation so all students get a chance to sit in the reading area. 

Have fun re-imagining your own classroom library spaces! I will continue to add ideas to my pinterest board "Alternate Seating/No Desks in Passion Driven Classroom"