At Johnson College Prep, a quiet revolution is underway, transforming students into readers, one page at a time. Thanks to the vision and dedication of English teacher and librarian Katherine Carlton, the school opened its very first in-house library this year. What started as a personal dream has blossomed into a shared space where students discover the joy of reading, build confidence, and find books that speak to their individual interests and identities. Hear more from Carlton about the inspiration behind the library and why reading is so important to her (plus a bonus feature at the bottom with two students sharing how they feel about the library and reading!):

What inspired you to create the first in-house library at Johnson College Prep?

I’ve always wanted a library here— I actually even mentioned the idea in my very first interview here! Before the school library came to fruition, my classroom library was the largest collection of books in the school. Students’ overwhelmingly positive reaction to the books made me realize that our students both needed and desired a dedicated school library.

Was there a specific moment or experience that made you realize the school needed this space?

Throughout the years, a staggering number of students have commented that “reading isn’t for me.” I believe that reading is and can be for everyone; our students just need access and exposure to feel comfortable self-identifying as readers. 

What role did books play in your own life growing up, and how has that influenced your vision for this library?

My earliest memory is actually of reading— of that moment when everything “clicked” and reading went from a struggle to a joy. My mom was a first-grade teacher, so literacy was a core value in my house. My family didn’t have a lot of money, but we always had a lot of books; garage sale books, hand-me-down books, and library books filled our house. Reading has been magical and transformative to me throughout my life, and I wanted to provide Johnson students with a space where they might be able to also experience that crucial moment when reading becomes joyful.

What has been the response from students and staff so far?

Staff have been overwhelmingly kind and supportive of this dream of mine. Ms. Santoyo (dean of operations) especially was an integral part of the process of clearing out the room. She was a fantastic thought partner when it came to finding a home for some of the random items that were in the room. Students have really embraced the space, and I’m happy to see them taking pride in a new student-facing area.

Do you envision this space as more than just a place to check out books? Will it serve as a hub for literacy programs, book clubs, or writing workshops?

Book Club is already well underway, and it’s quickly become the highlight of my week. There’s nothing quite like enjoying the company of some of our wonderfully bookish students. The library is only just getting up and running. Keep an eye out for all kinds of great events! But, beyond library-sponsored events, I am very proud that the library was already in use for all kinds of whole-school activities, such as ACT tutoring and the Boys Brunch in February.

How do you hope this library will evolve over the next few years? Are there any plans to expand the collection or integrate more digital resources?

I hope that next year, we may have a book purchasing budget so that we can continue to replace unsuitable texts with brand-new and exciting stories for our kids. But regardless of budgetary constraints, I will be filling out grants and seeking donations!

If you could leave students with one message about the power of reading, what would it be?

“The man who does not read good books is no better than the man who can’t.”

-Mark Twain

What was your first reaction when you heard about and saw the library?

Alrico: Well, I first heard about the new library space at JCP from my advisor, Ms.Giles. If anything, I was surprised and interested, since I do enjoy reading, and now I didn’t have to go to Ms. Carlton if I wanted a book. I first saw the library before it was finished because the space used for the library was my advisory room. I was genuinely surprised by the large collection of books that was available.

Zariah: I was happy when I first heard about the new library space at JCP. I was shocked when I first saw it. The design made the books stand out.

Before the library opened, how did you feel about reading or finding books at school? Has that changed now?

Alrico: Before the library, my way of getting books was from Ms.Carlton or taking some I had at home to school with me (though, I rarely did that because it felt tedious and trivial). Now that we have the library, getting books is made easier.

Zariah: It made it easier to get books without going to the public library. Now that it’s open, I constantly have books to read, without much trouble getting and returning the books.

Students enjoying the library space.

Ms. Carlton says she believes everyone can be a reader once they find the right book. Do you agree?

Alrico: Yes, I do agree. Reading is a way of relaxing the mind while strengthening it. Reading is a hobby you have to build mental stamina for. At first it can be hard, but over time, as you learn what kind of books you like reading, it becomes more fun and enjoyable.

Zariah: I definitely agree with that statement. I, myself, was not into reading on my own without it being mandatory for school. But, when I started to find books I liked, that’s when I started to read more and indulge in it.

What message would you give to other students who say, “Reading isn’t for me”?

Alrico: For students who claim that reading isn’t for them, they haven’t given reading a chance. They might be saying that because reading has been pushed on them without having the freedom to find the right book for themselves. I say give reading another chance, but with a book you enjoy.

Zariah: Give it a try before saying no. You just need to find your type of genre.