Fostering a love of reading throughout childhood is a primary goal of the Ipswich Public Library Children’s Room. Specialized Book Clubs for students in grades 1-5 allow children to meet in age-specific groups to socialize and discuss literature under the supervision and guidance of the staff. These groups meet on a monthly basis. Please contact the Ipswich Public Library Children’s Room to register for book clubs and/or for more specific information.
First graders are invited to participate in First Grade Junior Great Books, which uses an age-specific curriculum with an emphasis on fostering critical reading. Children read a story prior to each meeting and then discuss it with an eye toward why the characters make the choices they do. Betsy Johnson leads this short discussion and the group closes with a craft or activity. First graders do not need to be able to read independently to participate in this program, but this should be an after-school activity that they think will be fun! A snack is provided by the library.
Laurie Collins leads Junior Great Books for second graders. Friendship, bravery and responsibility are the themes of the Second Grade Junior Great Books program. The library provides the books to the children for each unit. Children first read the story at home with a parent. The story is then read aloud at each meeting before the discussion so that children may benefit regardless of reading level. A snack is provided by the library. Click HERE to jump to the Junior Great Books page.
Book Buddies, run by Betsy Johnson, is for third graders who genuinely enjoy reading and talking about novels with their peers. Participants are assigned an age-appropriate chapter book to read independently or with a parent before meeting each month. Guided discussions focus on plot, character and the author’s intent. Each month one participant is delegated to be the host of the group and to provide a snack for everyone. Click HERE to jump to the Book Buddies page.
Radical Readers with Betsy Johnson is for fourth and fifth graders who genuinely enjoy reading and socializing with other young readers. Members read age-appropriate chapter books from a variety of genres and in their discussions delve deeper into character and plot development. Each month different members host the group by providing a snack for the group. In addition, they take a leadership role by reading aloud the questions for discussion (prepared by Mrs. Johnson) and calling on their peers. Click HERE to jump to the Radical Readers page.
You may call the Children’s Room directly at 978-412-8713 for more information.