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Reluctant Reader Initiative

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Reluctant Reader Initiative

Gwinnett County Public Library, Ga.

Education - Children & Adults | 2018

Innovation Synopsis

Gwinnett County Public Library initiated a new collection of high interest large print titles for reluctant readers upon learning of a Metro Atlanta study indicating 40 percent of third grade students were not reading at grade level. The library responded quickly by testing this new strategy to assist struggling readers.

Challenge/Opportunity

Studies further indicate students reading below level in third grade face greater likelihood of dropping out of high school. With that challenge in mind, the initial 505 items were interfiled in juvenile and teen areas. The collection circulated 2,042 times in its first six months which prompted a second order of "classics" and school summer reading list titles. The larger print format affords struggling readers easier word recognition which contributes to growing comprehension and fluency.


Key Elements of Innovation

Other than a spine label in 16 point font, book size and appearance is no different from regular text counterparts. However, readers accessing this collection do not encounter a crowded page of print which can discourage a reader with comprehension or processing challenges. The collection does not float and is currently placed in four branches serving Title I schools. The library/school partnership makes these items immediately available to students, reading recovery specialists and reading coaches.


Achieved Outcomes

Circulation numbers indicate the collection items are being found and used. With recent grant funding, the library will be increasing the size of this collection as well as the opportunity for exposure to more students. While tracking circulation and seeking customer and school feedback, the library is also promoting the collection through Parent Resource Centers and branch Reading Club programs that pair elementary school students with high school volunteers for informal reading experiences.