Scholastic Book Fairs: Organization and Benefits for Schools

What's Happening?

Scholastic Book Fairs are organized primarily by school librarians or parent volunteers, offering curated collections of books for students to purchase. These fairs are predominantly held in elementary and middle schools, featuring selections from publishers like Scholastic or independent bookstore vendors. In addition to books, fairs may sell school supplies and accessories. Schools can choose to receive either 25 percent of the total fair revenue in dollars or 50 percent in Scholastic Dollars, which can be used to purchase educational supplies. The fairs aim to engage students in recreational reading, which can improve reading scores and foster a lifelong love of reading.

Why It's Important?

The organization of Scholastic Book Fairs by librarians and parent volunteers ensures that the selection of books is diverse and representative of all students. These fairs provide an opportunity for students to choose books based on their interests, promoting a love of reading. Financially, schools benefit from the revenue generated, which can be used to purchase educational materials and resources. The fairs also serve as a community-building event, involving educators, parents, and local communities in supporting education. However, disparities in access to book fairs highlight the need for equitable opportunities for all students.