Innovative Reading Promotion Activity Model in Library
Primary Educational Service Area Office 1-3 Songkhla Thailand
Abstract
School libraries play a multifaceted role in supporting learning and fostering reading habits among students. This qualitative study aimed to: 1) explore the current state of reading promotion activities in school libraries under the Primary Educational Service Area Office (PEASO) 1-3, Songkhla, Thailand; and 2) develop innovations and reading promotion activities models within these school libraries. Informants were purposively selected from nine schools, including school principals, experienced teachers or administrators responsible for library operations. Data were collected through document reviews, semi-structured interviews, participatory observations, and field notes, and subsequently analyzed using inductive analysis and data triangulation. The findings revealed that these school libraries lacked clear reading promotion policies and faced significant challenges across four dimensions: 1) physical environment, characterized by chaotic spaces, unorganized materials, crowding, poor ventilation, and termite-damaged books; 2) library resources, which were scarce, outdated, and unsuited for early childhood development; 3)technology, involving defective and poorly maintained computer equipment; and 4) librarians, notably the complete absence of professional librarians to oversee development. To overcome these constraints, three innovations and models driven by the SPA MODEL were developed to cultivate a love of reading and literacy skills in early childhood: 1) a library space allocation model; 2) an educational board game, "Snakes and Ladders"; and 3) two digital books, "A Little Turtle Sweet Song" and "I will Tell You a Story" Evaluated by principals and teachers, these innovations effectively revitalized the library atmosphere and enhanced students' communicative interactions. However, active adult guidance during digital reading sessions is highly recommended due to young children’s short attention spans.
