This fall, Dumont Elementary School students created character pumpkins from their favorite books for the Media Center Pumpkin Patches. Students created their masterpieces at home using paint, cardboard, felt, glitter and other handy supplies. Participating students were asked to describe their characters and identify their favorite book on an accompanying entry form. Winners were then selected at each grade level for the most creative pumpkin and for the one that looked the most like their chosen character. Each school’s PTOs donated gift vouchers for the winners to be used at the Scholastic book fairs that were held in each building. Jolie Kurz, first implemented this program two years ago at Lincoln school, one of the four Dumont schools where she serves as Media Specialist, and the program was successful. This year, Jolie’s library aides all loved the idea so much they decided to run it again in all four schools and as evidenced by the pictures, the results were inspiring!

Also pictured below is a sampling of a Dumont Preview Party. The idea started out as a venue for teachers to become familiar with new library acquisitions. Jolie and Kathleen Maynes had run some elaborate parties with food, drink, and music, when they worked together at the high school. After trying a “book tea” last year at all her elementary schools, Jolie decided to involve the students- her patrons who get the most excited about new books. Classes sign up to take a walk through the display and take some time to spend reading the new books, which were then arranged for checkout. This is a great way to make sure all your new shiny books are getting the exposure they deserve!