The Richland One School District is committed to fostering a robust reading culture that extends beyond the classroom walls. With the help of Library Media Consultant Travis Nelson and K-12 Literacy Coordinator Dr. Kendra Lynn, librarians throughout the district benefit from community partnerships. Through these relationships, schools access valuable literacy resources and enriching experiences that significantly enhance students’ engagement with books and reading.
In a recent webinar, Nelson and Lynn shared how these collaborations have increased reading opportunities and made literacy a community-wide priority, all while alleviating the financial burden on schools. Together, they are building meaningful connections with community partners to ignite a lifelong passion for reading in students.
Building Home Libraries with the Original Six Foundation
A standout example of community partnership is the collaboration with the Original Six Foundation, a local organization committed to empowering students from high-poverty areas by helping them build their own home libraries. Schools such as Hyatt Park, Arden Elementary, Logan Elementary, and Kauffman Road have benefited from this initiative.
Recently, the foundation hosted a superhero-themed book event. Students selected books to take home, instilling a sense of ownership and excitement about reading. Volunteers, including support from the restaurant Bojangles, provided treats, helping to make the event a memorable experience for all.
Cocky’s Reading Express: Bringing Books and Fun to Title I Schools
Another impactful partnership is with the University of South Carolina’s Center for Community Literacy through Cocky’s Reading Express, a program that brings free books and dynamic storytelling experiences to Title I schools across the nation. This year alone, Cocky’s Reading Express delivered nearly 5,000 books to seven of Richland One School District’s Title I schools.
Beyond book distribution, the events featured engaging interactions with USC library and education students who connected with the children. Adding to the excitement, Cocky, USC’s beloved mascot, brought the energy, making literacy fun and engaging.
Unlocking Resources with Richland Public Library
A partnership with the Richland Public Library has provided additional literacy opportunities for students. Every middle and high school ID card now doubles as a library card, granting access to in-person and digital resources. For elementary students, accounts can be activated with parental consent, ensuring that younger readers also benefit from these valuable resources.
Recognizing the community's diversity, Richland Public Library actively supports multilingual families by offering materials in both English and Spanish.
Celebrating Storytelling with Augusta Baker’s Dozen
For the past 37 years, the Richland One School District has partnered with Richland Library to host Augusta Baker’s Dozen, a storytelling celebration honoring the renowned storyteller Augusta Baker. This annual event brings together more than 1,000 fourth graders at historic locations, such as the Robert Mills House, to experience captivating storytelling by regional artists. Through this immersive experience, students connect with literature in a deeply engaging and memorable way, fostering a lifelong appreciation for storytelling and the rich traditions of reading.
Committed to the Cause
These partnerships reflect Richland One School District’s unwavering commitment to creating vibrant literacy opportunities inside and outside the classroom. By extending literacy initiatives into the community, Richland One inspires students, keeps reading fun, and cultivates a culture of learning that transcends school walls. Together, we can build a brighter future for our students, where every child can thrive through the power of reading!
Ready to bring the same transformative impact to your community? Contact us today to learn how Beanstack can support your literacy initiatives and foster a love of reading beyond the classroom.