Gen/elem: K - 1 taking books from shelves

[Judy Seck <jseck@LSD.K12.MI.US>]

Hi,
I am an elementary media specialist, fixed schedule, inter-city school
(about 400 kids).  The last two years, I have let the kindergarteners go to
the shelves and choose books themselves.  I questioning the desirability of
this.  Often, they make poor choices, get in each others way, and leave they
section looking like its been hit by a tornado.  I'm thinking of selecting
books and putting some on each table that they can choose from.  Any
suggestions?

Also what about first grade and non-fiction.  It had been a precedent in the
school I'm in that k, 1, and 2 only choose books from easy fiction.  I feel
they are missing many good non-fiction books geared for them (1 & 2).  Print
may be difficult, but great pictures.  Opinions?  Please reply directly to
my e-mail address.

Thanks,
Judy Seck
Teacher/Media Specialist
1012 West Willow
Lansing, MI  48915
Voice & FAX (517)325-7348
jseck@lsd.k12.mi.us