📚The Library Lowdown

Martha Dyer, Chávez teacher librarian, is actively engaging the school community through dynamic library programming and special collaborations.

School Board Member Judy Newman recently visited a fourth-grade class in the Chávez Library, where she helped students use book clues to locate their group’s mystery novels. She also guided students in using the online library catalog to find books of interest, record call numbers, and locate their selections on the shelves—an engaging, hands-on lesson in library skills.

Each Tuesday, Ms. Dyer’s students shine on the school’s daily video announcements during Title Tuesdays, where they share book recommendations and reading tips. Last week, Harmony highlighted How to Apologize by David LaRochelle, while first graders also shared drawings of their favorite places to read library books. Their top choice? Reading on their beds!

Amazing volunteers continue to bring creativity and care to the Chávez Library. Grandparent volunteer Jade recently created six beautiful boxes filled with bookmark-making supplies. After completing their library lesson and checking out a book, students enjoy designing their own bookmarks with her help, a favorite activity for many.

Mr. Adam, Edgewood teacher librarian, has been teaching students in 3rd-5th grade how to do research using curated online databases. The tools they have been using include Britannica School, Gale Databases, and National Geographic for Kids. The skills they are learning will be used for research projects they will be doing in their homeroom classrooms.

Ms. Julie Hopkins, Cal Young Middle School’s Library Manager, has worked hard to create a welcoming, inclusive space where students feel safe to relax, recharge, and connect. Whether they’re looking for a quiet corner to read or a place to laugh with friends, students know the library is open to them. FLEX periods, morning breaks, and lunch times are some of the busiest moments. Students drop in to read, work on class assignments, play board games, Chess and Uno groups are especially popular, create a quick craft, or simply socialize.

The library remains open all day for classes, individual students, and staff to browse, check out books, return materials, or take a short brain break. Most Language Arts classes visit every three weeks to choose new books, helping foster the joy of reading and giving students regular chances to find something that excites them. A frequent question Ms. Julie gets asked in the library is, “How many books can I check out?” Circulation is up this year, and it’s clear that book excitement is making a strong comeback.

The OBOB teams meet every Friday at lunch for book talks, games, and time to hang out with friends who share a love of reading. And good news: a large new book order is on the way, filled with student requests and favorite authors.

The energy in the library has been fantastic, and staff are excited for all that’s ahead!

Computer Science Education Week provides an opportunity to engage students in learning all about the workings of computers. As stated on the website:

"Computer Science Education Week is an annual call to action to inspire K-12 students to learn computer science, advocate for equity, and celebrate the contributions of students, teachers, and partners to the field.

For ten years, millions worldwide have joined Computer Science Education Week through the Hour of Code. In 2025, the focus becomes an Hour of AI, guiding students in safe and ethical AI use. There is a collection of lesson resources for all ages that can be found here.

Not ready to take the AI plunge? No worries! You can still engage students with coding games and puzzles available on the choice boards below.

K-3 Coding Choice Board

3-6 Coding Choice Board

6-12 Coding Choice Board

The News Literacy Project created an infographic to help students quickly evaluate the information they see online. Using a simple checklist, it guides students to consider the source, evidence, and accuracy of a claim before trusting or sharing it. This visual tool is a great addition to classroom instruction and library lessons focused on media literacy and digital citizenship.

The 6th Annual Future Ready Librarians App Smash Extravaganza was held on November 18th! 24 inspiring librarians and educators shared their favorite digital tools, resources, and innovative ideas. Check them out in the slide deck for details or watch the webinar for the full experience and all the details.

The work of school librarians is always growing and changing. As new technology and new ways of accessing information come along, the role of the librarian shifts right along with them. Today’s librarians do so much more than manage books—they help students think critically, navigate digital tools, and find reliable, meaningful information. The new Future Ready Libraries Framework 3.0 shines a light on just how much the job has expanded. It’s a reminder that our libraries are vibrant, flexible learning spaces, and our librarians are key partners in helping students thrive in a fast-changing world. Learn more about it here.

Storyvoice is offering several free author events in December starting on December 5 with Alice Hemming and Nicola Slater with The Snow Thief! Go to Storyvoice here and click events and Register. You can add it to your calendar once you register.

Check out the choice board below with free Capstone Interactive ebooks and links to activities that engage students in all kinds of making.

Need a new book to read this December and to kick off the new year? Check out this collection of Best Book lists from 2025.

December is a great time to hunker down with your favorite tea, a cozy blanket next to the fire (if you have one), and a good book! If you don't have shelves of books at home waiting to be read, Sora is full of awesome, diverse, engaging books for all reading interests! Not one to cozy up with a book, then try an audiobook while you're busy with your hobby, on the road, or tackling those monotonous tasks.

Looking for something to listen to while you're busy preparing for the holidays? Check out this collection of audiobooks for kids and this one for young adults.

Do you prefer fantasy or sci-fi? Or check the always-available collection of comics! There's something for everyone! Check out the full collection here. Log in to Sora with your 4J username and password. Watch this video to learn how to log in.

Watch this short video to learn how to download the app and listen and read on the go. 4J password required to log in. Teachers, please ensure students have access to their 4J username and passwords.

OBOB Newsletter

Maker Maven STEM Challenges

Maker Maven has fabulous ideas to get started on making in your classroom! There are all kinds of activities with specific instructions on how to implement and a materials list to help you get started. It's easy to implement and kids will love these activities!

Literacy and Information Resources

Here is a list of the digital literacy and information resources we have access to and how to access them. Bookmark this page for easy access when needed.

Kids, tweens, teens and family: celebrate the new year early at a free party with games, crafts, face painting, dancing and a balloon drop! This popular annual event returns to the Downtown Library's spacious fourth floor on Wednesday, December 31, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

For more information about Eugene Public Library services and events, go to eugene-or.gov/library, call 541-682-5450, follow @euglibrary on Instagram or Facebook — and visit in person!

This month's Virtually Book'd Choice board features books for the winter holiday season! Find them all in Sora. Log in with 4J username and password. Need a printout of passwords for your class? Reach out to Amy Page, and she'll hook you up!