At TJ reading can lead to tooth decay.
by Vince Crespin
photo by Manny Perez
TJ Librarian Sudi Stodola has implemented a new program called “Feed Your Mind Rot your Teeth,” in order to get students more involved with the library and reading, by rewarding the student’s sweet tooth.
The way it works is that students are helping out in the library by submitting book reviews for other people to see, so that potential readers can find books suggested by their peers. Each student who wishes to receive his or her sugar reward fills out a book review of either a favorite book, or of one recently checked out. However, in order to receive the candy, the reviews must be of quality, as determined by the library staff.
“We want to support reading within the school and reward the kids for it; however, it needs to be of good quality, otherwise they won’t receive the candy, and that would be a waste of my time and theirs… as well as a waste of paper,” said Stodola.
While any book can be reviewed, the longer books and higher reading levels are preferred. Books that have already received reviews include Falling Up, Blood and Chocolate as well as various other books. Once a student has completed the necessary “recommended reads” form, it will be posted in the library for others to see, and read the reviews.
“The reason I started this program is because I know students communicate to each other about what good books are out there, instead of getting it from the teachers, so I figured I would get it straight from them. This way provides forums for the students to share their favorite books. It helps me out to know what kids are reading. Books winning awards doesn’t necessarily mean everybody wants to read them. However, they are award winners for a reason,” commentated Stodola.
The program was started the week of March 21st and has already gotten a number of reviews and the staff has high hopes for the program. Manny Perez is one of the students who has already submitted multiple reviews. “It’s just that the library plays host to a lot of under appreciated books that kids really need to read,” said Perez.
The library has also developed a “wiki” website which allows the students to do reviews through blogs over the Internet. “Our new wiki page tjlmc-spartanspace.wikispaces.com/ is a way for our students to post new book reviews and have a chance to blog about their favorites of all time, or have a discussion based on the books. All you have to do is log on and create a profile and you are good to go,” said Stodola. It works the same way, give a quality review and then go into the library and receive your candy.
Another feature of the website is a list of books that were later developed into movies. This list has been developed and recommended by the TJ student body. Stodola was nervous about it at first, but is now excited for the Internet blog reviews. “It took a lot of work but I am pleased that we got the program up and running. I was unsure about how many people would participate, but if early participation is an indication, the program should grow to be well received,” exclaimed Stodola.
