The Wood River Middle School library has received a 2022 American Association of School Librarians Innovative Reading Grant. The national award, in the amount of $2,500, goes to just one school library each year. Librarian Samantha Archibald Mora received the grant as part of her project to expand the “manga” graphic novel section of the school library.
“Ms. Mora has done terrific work this school year, working with students to expand the manga section of our library and provide our readers with materials they truly find interesting and engaging. She does an amazing job promoting reading among our students and working with our teachers to create a culture of reading at WRMS,” said Robert Ditch, WRMS principal.
The manga expansion project came about as an idea for a practicum for Mora as she sought her library endorsement. At the start of the school year, she applied for and received a grant from the Blaine County Education Foundation. The project was a success, and when she read about the AASL grant, she decided to apply.
Mora plans to use the grant funds to expand the library’s manga collection even more. The comics and graphic novels date back to the 19th century in Japan and remain popular
worldwide today. The AASL Innovative Reading Grant supports the planning and implementation of a unique and innovative program for K-9 learners that motivates and encourages reading, especially with struggling readers.