Design Your Dream Library (Yes, even on a Budget!)
Apr 03, 2025
If your budget could include anything in the world, what would you add to your library to make it a place for student engagement, fun, and learning?
Would you create a cozy nook for students to curl up with their favorite books? Install a book vending machine that turns good behavior into a chance to win your own book? Turn your dreams into reality with a little creativity and the right tools for your library.
8 Ideas to Inspire Your Library Transformation
1. Storybook Walks
Bring books to life outside! Place laminated book pages along trails for a fun story experience for children and families. This activity is interactive, healthy, and magical.
2. Book Vending Machines
Install your very own vending machine stocked with books and reward students for their good behavior, academic achievements, or reading milestones. Turn reading into a celebration for your students.
3. Flexible Seating Zones
Fundraise for beanbags, stools, or furniture for cozy corners to create spaces for students to hang out. Making the choice to swap out your traditional seating for comfier, more versatile options will only make students want to stay longer.
4. Makerspace Corner
Stocking this area with some low-cost tools to boost creativity – craft supplies and recycled materials are just two examples. Your makerspace corner can operate as a hub for hands-on learning in your library.
Thomas Hughes Children’s Library, located on the second floor of Harold Washington Library Center, has all the aspects of a great makerspace studio. Both parents and teachers are welcome to create and learn together.
5. Author Visits
What’s fun about author visits is that they can be hosted in-person or online, so anyone is welcome to join! Whether you invite local authors or famous writers, the experience of hearing from them firsthand is something students won’t forget.
6. Library Pets or Reading Buddies
Raise funds for a fish tank, turtle, or even a stuffed animal to be students’ “reading buddy” in the library.
7. Murals or Student Art Walls
Partner with art teachers to fund a visual transformation of your library space. Make it inclusive by letting students participate.
The Children’s Library Discovery Center in New York features an interactive floor map of Queens. Sound effects are activated when children step on certain areas of the map, making for an interactive learning experience.
8. Tech Upgrades
Tablets, green screens, video editing software, and more- these tools bring your library into the digital age!
Did you know you have a fundraising tool available to you through Destiny Library Manager?
Follett Destiny® Fundraising Manager is built right into Destiny Library Manager – no extra tools or spreadsheets required.
Destiny Fundraising Manager lets you easily manage fundraising campaigns, track donations, and keep families informed. Whether you’re raising $50 for bookmarks or $5,000 for a book vending machine, Destiny Fundraising Manager helps you organize it all in one place.
Click to learn more about how Destiny Fundraising Manager can help you bring your dream library to life.
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