Classroom Libraries

My classroom Library is the comfy area of the room. Filled with bean bags and pillows my students use it as a center of choice. All the books have been leveled and are marked with colored electrical tape on the binders then they are sorted into labeled baskets by genre. I work with my students so they are aware of what color level they can read independently. However, I do not discourage them from taking a higher level book - even if they are only looking at pictures - because that is reading too.
I incorporate the Daily Five into my class routine so the first several weeks are spent demonstrating and practicing "how to read a book." I allow my students to take these books from the classroom library to other parts of the room to read as well as borrow them to go home. The classroom library is one center I do not work with the students in. I want them to feel comfortable reading/looking at books without worrying about me looking over their shoulder. I do however, eavesdrop - it's a great assessment tool.
In addition I have a basket of books in each center on related topics. For example in my block center the books are about construction and building. These books are also leveled. The children use them to get ideas but mostly I use the basket for those students who have difficulty finding books of interest. They choose their favorite center and they can always find a book. My art center has books of artists as well as how to draw books. All of my centers have a book basket. This is my 29th year of teaching and I have been collecting books and developing this system for almost as many years.

My library is a focal point in my ESL classroom. It is decorated with a hanging net and colorful bean bags for the students to sit on. During Guided reading, when I take it in turns to listen to a group read, the rest of the students are allowed to either sit in the reading corner or at their desks. They have the options of reading books, magazines, the local newspaper or take part in a center type activity to improve their decoding and reading skills.
I also encourage my students to buy one book each so that it can be added to our classroom library.