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International School Libraries Month

It's time to celebrate the magic of school libraries during International School Libraries Month - get lost in a good book today!

Thursday

1–31

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of October

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYSchool

SUBCATEGORYLiteracy

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate the wonderful world of school libraries on October 1st for International School Libraries Month! This annual event was first established in 1985 by the American Association of School Librarians to recognize the importance and impact of school libraries worldwide. Not only do these libraries provide a space for students to learn and explore, they also play a crucial role in promoting literacy and fostering a love for reading. So let's take this opportunity to appreciate all that school libraries have to offer and support their continued growth and development.

TIMELINE

International School Libraries Month Timeline

Early School Libraries

The concept of school libraries began to take root during the 1800s, where books were made accessible to pupils for their educational development.

American Library Association Establishment

The American Library Association (ALA) was established, playing a significant role in shaping library services, including school libraries.

School Libraries Achieve Prominence

The focus on school libraries intensifies with educators recognizing the importance of library resources in shaping students' reading and research habits.

First School Library Month

The American Association of School Librarians established the first school library month to recognize the importance of school libraries globally.

Digital Resources Integration

Many school libraries begin integrating digital resources and technologies, enriching the modern library experience for students.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International School Libraries Month

Host a book swap

Encourage students and teachers to bring in their favorite books to trade with others. This is a great way to promote reading and sharing within the school community.

CREATE

Create a reading challenge

Challenge students to read a certain number of books during the month and offer prizes or incentives for reaching the goal. This will encourage students to utilize the school library and discover new books.

PLAN

Plan a scavenger hunt

Hide clues throughout the school library that lead students to different books. This will get them familiar with the library and its resources while having fun!

INVITE

Invite local authors for a Q&A session

Reach out to authors in the community and ask them to come speak to students about their books and the writing process. This will give students a chance to interact with real authors and learn more about their craft.

HOST

Host a bookmark-making workshop

Set up a station with different materials for students to make their own bookmarks. This is a fun and creative way to celebrate reading and the importance of school libraries.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love International School Libraries Month

Librarians play a crucial role in school libraries

School librarians are dedicated professionals who curate collections, teach information literacy skills, and collaborate with teachers to enhance classroom learning. They are an integral part of the school community and deserve recognition for their hard work and dedication.

School libraries are a valuable resource for students

International School Libraries Month is a time to recognize and appreciate the importance of school libraries. They provide students with access to a wide range of books, resources, and technology that enhance their education and learning experience.

School libraries promote literacy and love for reading

By providing students with a variety of books and resources, school libraries encourage a love for reading and help improve literacy skills. They also offer a safe and quiet space for students to immerse themselves in books and explore new worlds through literature.

Related holidays

School Library Month

Get lost in the world of books and knowledge during School Library Month – discover new stories, ideas, and adventures waiting for you!

Library and Information Services Month

It's Library and Information Services Month - time to explore new worlds, expand your knowledge, and discover the endless resources available at your local library!

Pop CultureMonth-long

National Book Month

Get ready to curl up with a good book because it's National Book Month! Discover new stories, authors, and genres all month long.

National March Into Literacy Month

An awareness observance in March promoting reading and writing skills and celebrating the joy of books to support lifelong literacy.

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