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Lower School Library Doubles In Size with Introduction of eBooks and Audio Books

As part of a grant over the summer of 2024, Library and Media Studies faculty member Mike Steele launched an eBook and audiobook library in the Lower School. Students now have access to over 10,000 digital eBooks and audiobooks, and they can borrow and access these materials from anywhere. With the physical library consisting of just under 10,000 books, this project effectively doubles the number of materials available to the students.

Students access materials through an app called Sora, which they can download to a tablet or phone. Students who don't have personal devices at home can borrow an eReader Pack from the lower school library. Students can connect their public library cards to the app to access even more eBooks and audiobooks. Sora offers so many great features, including a Read-to-Me feature so developing readers can listen and read simultaneously. Mr. Steele can also push books directly to student accounts at the request of families or teachers. This eBook and audiobook launch will allow the Lower School library to grow indefinitely. These eBooks and audiobooks include both English and Spanish texts.
 
One of the perks of a digital library is the ability to access information immediately. Not only can students borrow materials without physically being in the library, but Mr. Steele can purchase materials students or teachers need without having to wait for those materials to ship. If students are looking for books for a class assignment, they're no longer limited to what's physically present in the classroom or library.
 
The Sora app has many features that allow students to tailor the eReading experience to their unique learning needs. A read-to-me feature helps beginning readers decode new and unfamiliar words. Adjustable font sizes and a dyslexic-friendly font option aren't possible with physical materials, but they are available in Sora.
 
“We've reached a point where the majority of our research happens digitally, whether it's a quick internet search or downloading full college textbooks in digital format,” said Mr. Mike Steele. “It's important for Lower School students to begin developing their digital research skills as they prepare for more complex research assignments in the Middle and Upper School. Once students have borrowed eBooks, they can search within the texts, make notes, bookmark pages, and highlight information. Their digital markings are saved if they ever borrow the eBook again.”
 
Studies show that audiobooks stimulate the same part of the brain as reading, and students comprehend and retain information equally, whether they read or listen to the information. Additionally, it can be a fun activity during walks and car rides. 

Ebooks significantly enhance a library by providing greater accessibility for all students. They offer a diverse selection of titles, allowing children to explore various genres, topics, and reading levels that may not be available in a physical collection. Additionally, ebooks can be checked out instantly, enabling multiple students to read the same title at the same time, which reduces wait times.

Many ebooks also feature interactive elements, such as animations and quizzes, which can boost engagement and make reading more enjoyable for young learners. Furthermore, they often include tools for tracking reading progress, allowing teachers and librarians to monitor students’ development and interests effectively.

Ebooks serve as valuable resources for research projects, giving students access to reliable information right at their fingertips. They encourage independent reading by offering a wide range of titles that allow students to explore their interests, fostering a love for reading and promoting independent learning. Ebooks support different learning styles by providing visual, auditory, and kinesthetic experiences through multimedia elements, creating a more inclusive and engaging environment for all students.

Ranney’s summer grant program is part of the school’s ongoing commitment to faculty professional development. The program enables faculty to explore cutting-edge pedagogy, develop best practices, and work collaboratively to enhance our academic and student life programs. Faculty submit detailed grant proposals to Division Heads and Senior Leadership who select grant recipients based on the merits of the project, feasibility, and overall impact. The summer grants program is made possible through community support of the Ranney Fund, our school’s annual fundraising campaign.
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Ranney School

235 Hope Road
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Tel. 732.542.4777
Our mission is to know and value every child, nurturing intellectual curiosity and confidence, and inspiring students to lead honorably, think creatively, and contribute meaningfully to society.