Lexington High School

Research has shown the importance of reading for pleasure in building the capacity for students to transition from being “for school” readers to lifelong readers. Research has also shown how important it is for students to build authentic relationships with their peers in which they can have actual conversations that stimulate their minds and allow them to think, argue and form opinions based on what they are hearing from a different perspective. The district-wide virtual book club allows students to participate in both of these activities: read for pleasure and engage with others who have different perspectives. All five high schools in Lexington School District One cover a multitude of socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. Students bring to the book club a variety of experiences and interests. The librarians encourage students in the book club to read whatever books they would like within a student-chosen theme. Using a variety of technology tools, including the learning management system, Schoology, students interact virtually through discussion posts as well as coming together once a month, via a Zoom call, to talk about their books with librarians serving as facilitators.