LibraryChef Program Ideas
March
April
May
MARCH – Spring Into Reading
📚 March 3rd – Return Borrowed Books Week: Reminder for overdue books.
🌸 March 12th – Plant a Flower Day: Celebrate spring with flowers and books.
📖 March 20th – World Storytelling Day: Share stories in fun ways.
🌸 March 12th – Plant a Flower Day: Celebrate spring with flowers and books.
📖 March 20th – World Storytelling Day: Share stories in fun ways.
March 3–7: Fine Forgiveness Week
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Place a visible sign at checkout: "Fine Forgiveness Week – Return old books, no fines!"
- Optional: Announce on social media or email newsletter.
- When patrons return overdue books, staff simply note: “Forgiven for Returns Week” in system or on receipt.
- Optional: Display a small “We Missed You!” area with returned books to encourage browsing.
- Check daily that signage is visible and replenish any printed signs.
Materials Needed: Signage, optional social media posts, small cart for returned books.
Target Audience: All ages, especially families.
Time Commitment: ~10 minutes setup, then minimal.
March 12: Plant a Flower Day – Seed Packet Giveaway & Craft Corner
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Purchase or request donations of bulk seed packets (sunflowers, marigolds, easy-to-grow flowers).
- Attach small cards: “Grow a Reader!” to each seed packet.
- Place a bowl or basket with packets at the checkout desk.
- Optional: Set up a craft table with flower-shaped papers, glue sticks, markers, and old magazine clippings for bookmark-making.
- Staff check and refill supplies once daily. Encourage kids to create bookmarks independently.
- Display finished bookmarks on a small board to showcase patron creativity.
Materials Needed: Seed packets, cards, craft supplies, table, markers, glue sticks.
Target Audience: Kids & families.
Time Commitment: 15–20 minutes setup, then minimal supervision.
March 20: World Storytelling Day – Storytelling Nook & Community Story Chain
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Create a cozy reading nook in the children’s or main area with a rug and beanbags.
- Post a sign: “Tell a story here today!” with prompts like “What if animals could talk?”
- Provide a large sheet of paper on the wall or easel labeled: “Once upon a time in our library…” with markers available.
- Encourage patrons to add lines to the story chain during their visit.
- Optional: Staff can read along or share a short story at designated times.
- Check daily that supplies (markers, prompts) are available and paper is neat.
Materials Needed: Rug, beanbags, story prompts, large paper, markers, tape.
Target Audience: Families, children, seniors.
Time Commitment: 10–15 minutes setup, optional participation during day.