There’s a new way for students at Lake George Jr.-Sr. High School to get excited about reading, and it’s catching on fast.
The school library recently launched “Lit Boxes,” a monthly subscription-style reading program designed for students in grades seven through nine. Each month features a new theme, and the first 20 students to sign up receive a personalized box filled with surprises centered around that theme.
In October, the theme was “Spooky,” featuring horror and ghost stories and interest was instant. “The sign-ups were full in just four minutes,” said Sarah Olson, Jr.-Sr. High School librarian. “I was pleasantly surprised at the overwhelming response.”
Each Lit Box is carefully curated with a handpicked book matched to the student’s reading preferences, along with themed snacks, swag, and even small maker projects that highlight the school’s Maker Space in the library. Students get to keep everything in the box except the book, which they return once they’ve finished reading.
The idea for Lit Boxes grew out of professional development and past experiences. Olson attended a program on passive programming earlier this year, where another librarian shared a similar concept that began during the COVID pandemic. Inspired by that success, and remembering how students once eagerly signed up for four books at a time in a similar effort, she decided to bring the idea to Lake George.
“The goal was to make reading fun and personal,” Olson said. “The students’ enthusiasm shows that connecting books to creativity and a little surprise can make a big difference.”
With a new theme coming each month and excitement already brewing, Lit Boxes are proving to be a hit, one that’s turning reading into a community event at Lake George Jr.-Sr. High School.