Whether you’re setting up your first classroom library or refreshing an existing one, taking the time to curate and arrange your books with purpose can make reading more accessible—and more exciting—for your students.

But before you start packing your shelves and setting up bins, it’s important to think about how your students will use your classroom library. Here, organization is key. It should be easy for students to find titles in your library that match their interests and reading levels.

So, how should you organize your books? There are a few different ways. It really all depends on your and your students’ preferences. No matter which method you choose, your ultimate goal is to make reading approachable, intuitive, and enjoyable every time your students browse your classroom library.

Order Alphabetically by Title and Author

This is probably the least complicated way to keep your books tidy. Sorting books alphabetically by author’s last name makes it simple for students to find works by a specific writer or to explore more titles once they’ve discovered a favorite. Alternatively, you can organize alphabetically by book title if that makes more sense for your classroom layout or student habits.

This method also makes reshelving simple; students can easily return books to the correct spot, keeping your collection neat and manageable throughout the year.

Organize by Genre or Subject Matter

Grouping books together by genre, such as mystery, fantasy, historical fiction, etc., helps students choose from the types of stories they like the most. Many teachers use this approach because it mirrors the way books are arranged in traditional libraries and bookstores. Best of all, this type of organization encourages students to explore. When they know there’s a book for every interest, students are more likely to take reading risks. In time, they’ll grow more comfortable tackling any type of text.

To make browsing a breeze, label each shelf or bin with the genre name and try using visual cues. Small icons, like a theater mask for drama or a magnifying glass for mysteries, can help students navigate through genres at a glance.

Free Printable Library Shelf Labels

Add a splash of color to your classroom library! This free collection of printouts includes 15 different category and genre labels scaled to fit and print on 11” x 8.5” sheets.

Download Color Labels Download Grayscale Labels

Build a “Spotlight” Section

Create a space on your shelves for special titles to shine, like new additions or student recommendations. You can feature books that tackle specific topics, subjects, or themes found in your broader literature units. For example, if your class is reading The Great Gatsby, you could display books related to the American Dream.

Regularly updating this spotlight section encourages students to revisit the library and discover something new each time. It also helps highlight lesser-known titles that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Section by Reading Levels

If your students vary in reading abilities, consider organizing books by reading level or grade band. This lets you match students with appropriate titles that will challenge them without causing frustration.

How do you determine a book’s reading level? You can use databases like the Accelerated Reader Bookfinder or the Lexile Measure Search to look up a book’s specifications. Check the books themselves, too. Some children's and YA publishers include age or grade ranges on the back covers or inside the front of their books.

Keep in mind that some students might feel uncomfortable broadcasting their reading skills to the class. If this is a concern in your classroom, try applying reading level labels directly to the books instead of physically separating them. Color-coded stickers placed inside the front covers work well. This helps you discreetly mix together books of all reading levels in your library system.

Why Should I Have a Classroom Library, Anyway?

Studies have shown that students who have access to books are more motivated, engaged, and likely to academically achieve than those who do not. Sadly, a large number of students fall into the latter category. A classroom library gives students who otherwise wouldn’t have access to books the chance to interact with literature in ways that are meaningful to them.

Choice

Classroom libraries give students the freedom of choice. When students can pick books that genuinely interest them and read at their own pace, they start to see reading as something enjoyable rather than an assignment. Choice also takes the pressure off students who may be struggling readers or those looking for more challenging texts. They can choose the books that are just right for them. Less friction makes them more likely to read, and the more they read, the stronger their literacy skills will grow. It’s a win for everyone!

Curiosity

Having a variety of titles in your classroom library presents students with opportunities to explore different genres, voices, and subjects in a supported setting. Maybe they’re interested in poetry, but haven’t read any poems in previous English language arts or literature classes. Or perhaps they’re learning about World War II in their history classes and want to learn more about the subject at their leisure. A well-stocked classroom library gives them chances to dive deeper into their specific interests.

Community

Perhaps most importantly, a classroom library can become a shared space where reading feels social and collaborative rather than solitary. This is where the “Spotlight” organization method mentioned above comes in handy. Encourage students to make reading recommendations to add to the “Spotlight” shelf, write short book reviews, or create a “Books We Love” bulletin board. These small activities help normalize reading conversations and build a sense of community around literature.

Getting Started with Classroom Library Packs

Building a thoughtful classroom library doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming! At Prestwick House, our Classroom Library Packs make it easy to expand your classroom library collection with high-quality, age-appropriate books at discounted prices. Each pack is curated around popular themes, genres, and grade levels, so you can quickly stock your shelves with engaging titles your students will love while staying within budget.

From refreshing your selection of modern novels to rounding out your classic literature offerings, Classroom Library Packs give you an effortless way to keep your library inviting, organized, and full of books your students can’t wait to read!