I spent this last week at the media center. I wanted to see how to run a bookfair, and it was a great way to see the media center for a number of days in a row.
It was originally overwhelming. Each class came in for 20 minutes and browsed around. It was 25 to 30 students everywhere all at once. We had to keep everything organized, stocked, and straightened. Once I had a chance to learn where everything was it ran much smoother.
I had a chance to see how to manage volunteers, and the difference between a useful helper and a helper who is more work than it is worth. We also worked with student volunteers who advertised the fair at the carpool line, as well as the parent's night luau.
I was disappointed by the number of students who chose to buy pencils, eraser, and other silly little things rather than books. I have come to understand that in times when there are tight budgets, any money is helpful. This is the only fundraiser for the media center, and will be there primary source of funds for next year. There were a number of students who did by books, but they were always outweighed by "stuff".
We received new shipments each day, and I had a chance to see how to order more material, and how to receive the incoming items.
My time there also allowed Marian time to work on other lessons and daily items that she normally would not have time for during the fair. I saw how difficult it is to manage all of the people involved as well as keep up with circulation and anything other than the fair.
A large amount of time is also spent planning and presenting parent's night, which provides a large part of the funds. It is important to include a number of school groups; in this case the band (who played music) and drama (who acted out portions of different books that were on sale!). The parents will come in to see their child, and then purchase books for them.
Teachers were able to buy books at a small discount as well, which helped to bring in more revenue.
I am so glad I had this opportunity, I think I would have been very overwhelmed if I had to run a bookfair without having every experience one.
** I would like to note that they made their goal and will be adding a great number of books to their collection!!
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