Day 13: Prepare Three Questions You’ll Ask Students
The first library visit of the year is full of opportunities.
- You can explain procedures.
- Review expectations.
- Talk about new books.
- Introduce library spaces.
- Share your excitement for the year ahead.
Those things are all important. But before students remember what you said, they’ll remember how you made them feel.
One of the simplest ways to help students feel welcome is to ask a few thoughtful questions—and then truly listen to the answers.
Today’s Quick Win is all about preparing three questions that invite conversation, spark curiosity, and help you get to know your readers.
Why It Matters
Every student who walks into your library brings a unique story.
- Some are passionate readers.
- Some haven’t found the right book yet.
- Some are fascinated by science.
- Others love drawing, animals, sports, history, or building things.
When we ask questions, we’re doing more than making conversation. We’re gathering clues that help us connect students with books they’ll actually enjoy.
We’re also sending an important message: “Your interests matter here.”
Students are much more likely to return to a place where they feel seen and heard.
Your 15-Minute Challenge
Choose three questions you’ll ask students during their first visit. Keep them simple, open-ended, and easy to answer. The goal isn’t to quiz students. It’s to start a conversation.
Here are a few ideas.
Reading Questions
- What was your favorite book you read this summer?
- Have you discovered a new favorite author lately?
- What’s the last book you couldn’t put down?
- Is there a series you hope to read this year?
Interest Questions
- What’s one thing you’d love to learn more about?
- If you could become an expert on any topic, what would it be?
- What hobby or activity do you enjoy outside of school?
- What’s something you’re curious about right now?
Story Questions
- What’s your favorite kind of story?
- Do you like funny books, mysteries, adventures, fantasy, realistic fiction, or true stories?
- Would you rather read about real people or imaginary worlds?
- Do you enjoy picture books, graphic novels, chapter books, or nonfiction?
You don’t need to ask every question. Choose the three that feel most natural for you.
Try This Today
Write your three questions on an index card or sticky note and keep them near your lesson plans. That way, even during a busy first week, you’ll remember to pause and ask.
If you’re working with an entire class, invite students to share their answers with a partner before asking for volunteers. You’ll hear more responses, and quieter students may feel more comfortable joining the conversation. If students are visiting independently, use one question as you help them check out books. Even a brief conversation can make a lasting impression.
Bonus Tip
Keep a small notebook—or a simple digital document—where you jot down interesting things students share.
- Maybe one student loves sharks.
- Another is fascinated by airplanes.
- Someone else can’t get enough mysteries.
Later in the year, when a new book arrives on one of those topics, you’ll know exactly who might enjoy it. Students are often amazed when a librarian remembers what they like to read. Those little moments build trust and strengthen relationships.
You don’t have to know every student’s favorite book after the first week of school. Relationships grow over time. But every meaningful conversation begins with a simple question.
As librarians, we sometimes feel pressure to have all the answers. In reality, one of our greatest strengths is our curiosity.
When we ask students about their interests, we’re saying:
- “I’d like to get to know you.”
- “I’d like to help you find books you’ll love.”
- “Your voice matters in this library.”
Those messages stay with students long after the conversation ends. And they often become the beginning of a lifelong relationship with reading.
Reflection Question
Think back to when you were a child.
What question could an adult have asked that would have made you feel truly seen and understood?
Could that become one of the questions you ask your students this year?
For more in the August in the Library series, click here.
For more Library Administration posts, click here.
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