An experiment in influencing book choice through the use of displays

The purpose of this study is to investigate a media specialist's role in influencing book choice in kindergarten students through the use of book displays. With a goal of broadening the book selection choices of students, I sought to find fun and creative ways to encourage students to check out a wider variety of books. Data was gathered on circulation statistics for book displays using both Collection Presentation Standards and Zoned Book Displays. I also conducted brief interviews and observations of kindergarten students regarding book selection. The findings show the importance of displaying books in an attractive way to increase circulation. Both the shelf height and displaying books with their fronts facing are key factors in boosting circulation. Utilizing a Zoned Book Display with a variety of genres, themes and authors to accompany various lesson plans is another way a media specialist can influence a kindergartener's book choice. In order to positively influence book choice, the book collection must be attractive, shelving and fixtures must be evaluated, collections displayed in a manner that is pleasing to the eye maximizing shelf heights at the optimal level and displaying as many books front facing as possible.