Bookworm believes in the power of reading to transform lives. Its Libraries in Schools (LiS) programme, supported by GSCERT Goa and the Cipla Foundation, aims to nurture a love for reading among children, especially those with limited access to books. Reaching 100 + primary schools across Goa, the programme engages students from grades one to seven through age-appropriate books, storytelling, Read Aloud sessions, book talks, and creative activities. With the support of dedicated teachers, it fosters literacy, language development, and imagination, making reading a joyful and lasting experience.
The Bookworm team had the joy of visiting St. Jude’s Primary School, Fatona, Betalbatim, Goa for a special session with the 3rd and 4th std children. This session was made possible thanks to Sujata Noronha and HM Sunanda Cardoza, whose ideas and support helped shape it.
We began with warm-up games and Library songs to connect with the children. As we sang “I Like Books” and “Open, Shut Them”, followed by the playful Dance, all children joined in with excitement. Their enthusiasm filled the space, and soon everyone was moving, clapping, and giggling through a quick round of playful warmup “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes.” By the end of it, the children were energized and were asking, “What’s next?”, “What story are we going to read today?”
Glimpses of Warm up Activity and Library Songs
Next, we introduced them to the Library van. Rohan and Jennifer guided small groups through the van, explaining how the books are arranged and how they could explore it on their own. The Library van itself was a big hit. One child after book borrowing said, “I like reading books related to the earth and was happy to see books related to it”.
They browsed through the shelves with curious eyes, flipping pages, showing each other pictures, and reading stories through pictures they found interesting. It was clear that for many, this was their first experience of a mobile library and it felt magical to them.
Glimpses of Library Tour and Book Lending
After everyone borrowed a book, we came to the hall and divided the children into three groups and rotated them through the planned activity stations.
Station 1: Book Browsing Game: “Name, Place, Animal, Thing”
In this activity, children explored the books they had selected from the Travelling library to help fill out the Name, Place, Animal, Thing worksheet. We explained how they could find answers by looking in the books.
Some children found it easy and dove right in, discussing ideas with each other. Others needed a little help, especially with reading the words. But what was beautiful to watch was how they helped each other. Many children shared that they like this activity and they had fun.
Station 2: Literacy Game: Dog and Bone
This was a high-energy station, and the children were very excited when they heard they would be playing a team game. For most, it was their first time playing Dog and Bone with an alphabet twist. The Bookworm team held the session but Teachers helped facilitate, and the teams participated enthusiastically.
As soon as a letter was called out, children ran to grab the alphabet. The game brought out teamwork, laughter, and a little friendly competition.
Station 3: Art
At the art station, children were encouraged to draw something they saw or imagined from a book they had just browsed. We also gave them a creative prompt to spark ideas. Soft pastels were used, and for many, this was a new medium.
They were immersed in the colors and the art they created was vibrant, thoughtful, and deeply inspired by their imagination.
Keeping time in mind, we gathered everyone to wrap up the session. When asked what they enjoyed the most, the responses we received were:
“I liked the Traveling Library van!”
“I liked drawing the animal I saw in the book!”
“I like the dog and bone game. We worked as a team and we won!”
“Can you please come again as I want to participate in more such activities!”
Their smiles and words made it all worth it.
We thanked the teachers present, Teacher Alisha and another supportive teacher, who not only helped throughout but also participated in a round of Dog and Bone. They were full of enthusiasm.
We’ve successfully introduced the Library Van and its magic to this school, and as a facilitator, I was truly delighted to be part of this journey. Traveling from Mala to Margao and meeting so many new faces filled me with new energy.
Since our first visit, we’ve been returning to the school every fortnight with the Travelling Library and a range of engaging activities.
The children were visibly excited. “Wow! So many books!”. They enjoyed flipping through the pages and looking at the colorful illustrations.
One child said, “Sir, this time I’m taking this book, but next time I want that one too!” , pointing to the book A Dog Called Shoo. Some even asked if they could borrow more than one book. I explained that since it was our first visit, each child could take only one book for now.
“Sir, I want a horror book!”
“I want the book my friend took!”
“I want a book about cars!”
“I want ghost stories!”
“I want science experiments!”
They explored the collection with great curiosity, pointing out different titles and illustrations. “This one has different animals!” one of the children exclaimed, showing it to another. Some were unsure of what to pick, so I guided them to select age-appropriate books and encouraged them to explore more.
An exciting part of the experience has been the creation of personal library cards. The children have taken ownership of them with pride. During our sessions, we’ve also started revisiting parts of books and encouraging the children to share what they’ve read. Many are now coming forward eagerly to do Booktalks and recommend their favorites to classmates.
It’s been heartwarming to witness their growing enthusiasm for reading.
Their voices are still ringing in my ears. A big thank you to the entire Bookworm team for their consistent support and encouragement throughout the process!
