Dear 5th-grade parents and guardians,

Welcome to DMS! As you know, our middle school library serves grades 5 - 8 which means our reading
materials range over many topics and reading levels. I’m writing to give you some background information
about our library and help you become a partner in your child’s experience choosing books. As DMS’s teacher
librarian, I select the books for our library after reading multiple positive reviews in library journals that indicate
the age range of the material. This is work I have been engaged in for over fifteen years as a school librarian.

Our goal in the library is to provide as much personal guidance as possible while also giving students
tools to find books on their own that are considered a ​good fit​. All books are available to check out to any
student, consistent with the Library Bill of Rights which states that we may not label or restrict access to library
material once it has been added to the collection. Beyond that, it would be challenging for me (or any of us) to
decide what’s appropriate for all students in 5th and 6th-grade verses 7th and 8th. Through my years of
experience, I’ve discovered that when I tell students that certain books are more for 7th and 8th grade, younger
students immediately want to read them.

I find it helpful to remember that books at this level generally handle “tough” issues with positive
lessons and messages unlike many other forms of media. In addition, many of these books deal with the
changes our middle school students are experiencing and can be a great way to initiate discussion and ask
questions. However, that doesn’t mean every book will be something you’re comfortable having your child
read. Asking your child what they’re reading is really the best method to guide their choices.

Common Sense Media is a good tool to use to learn about the books your child is reading. These
reviews can be accessed online or by downloading their app. They review titles and let you know what you
might encounter for themes and language.

https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews

Please know that you can contact me with any questions or if you would like help selecting books for
your student(s). I truly love what I do, and I’m happy to be of assistance.

Sincerely,

Shannon Horton, MLIS (Masters in Library and Information Studies)

Teacher Librarian, Grades 5-12
Decorah Community School District