It is the Eastplain Library's mission to fully engage students using a variety of multiple modalities--through read-alouds, oral discussion, hands-on challenges, collaborative group work, writing, art, games, demonstrative play & performance, and technology. Additional Eastplain library initiatives include PARP (Pick a Reading Partner) Month--in partnership with the Eastplain PTA--Puzzle Club, Book Clubs, The Creativity Corner, Plainedge Elementary Summer Reading Program, and teacher collaborations. Eastplain Library is also host to a variety of district and school events including Plainedge Veterans Day Celebration and Plainedge Law Enforcement Appreciation Day.
Our Library Class curriculum is tailored to be grade appropriate and includes differentiation as needed. Our main focus includes the following:
Forming Meaningful Connections to Literature
Using prior knowledge and further exploration to gain deeper insight into a story's narrative. Exploring non-fiction (poetry, biographies, history, etc.) and fiction's different genres (fantasy, historical fiction, sci-fi, mystery, fairy tales, etc.).
Storytelling
Understanding characters, setting, illustrations, plot, story arc, and conclusion. Author studies and evaluation of Caldecott and Newbery Awards. Creating unique stories through writing prompts, illustration, comic strips, poetry, and performance.
Media Literacy
The foundations of Digital Citizenship are more important than ever: How to use technology responsibly online. Students become "information detectives" by evaluating real vs. fake news. Introduction to works cited, bibliography, and copyright.
Research/Library
Library class offers multiple opportunities for students to conduct research; locating the most valuable and pertinent books to best support research projects as well as using online platforms effectively to augment academic research.
Special Library Initiatives
Reader Leader
Students who complete the Plainedge Summer Reading Program activities over the summer are awarded the district distinction of becoming a Plainedge Reader Leader in the fall.
Library Enrichment Clubs Opportunities include 3rd, 4th, & 5th grade book clubs for advanced readers and Computer Science Enrichment classes
PARP (Pick a Reading Partner) Each March, Eastplain Library holds a fully themed-out initiative to inspire student reading. Prizes, contests, and numerous activities make it a month to remember.
Thanksgiving Day Parade
Students explore the history and pageantry of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, then design and create their own balloons to march in a festive parade through the hallways of Eastplain.
Mock Caldecott Awards
During the “Mock Caldecott” awards, elementary students examine potential winning books, evaluate illustrations based on artistic quality and storytelling, then discuss their favorites and make predictions about which book will win.
Service Learning Projects
In our impactful learning projects through library, students research community needs and design their own initiatives, like a pasta drive, to help address them. These student-led projects foster empathy, leadership, and a sense of social responsibility.
"Storybook Pumpkins"
In our annual Storybook Pumpkins contest, students and families transform pumpkins into creative characters from beloved books. This fun, imaginative event encourages artistic expression and celebrates a love of reading.
Board Game Design Contest Designing and building a board game helps students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. As they create objectives and rules, students practice logical reasoning and build communication, innovation, and literacy skills.
"La Libreria Ristorante"
This special Eastplain Library Book Tasting Event takes place in February, when students explore various book genres during a "fine dining" book sampling experience--and then write reviews for other "customers."
To view Eastplain's Library Collection,
please visit our catalog at Eastplain Library Collection
If you have any questions, please contact
Mrs. Fey or Mrs. Bonserio at Eastplain Library, karin.fey@plainedgeschools.org;
516-992-7600 ext. 7612
Instagram: East_madamlibrarian