As part of a new library legacy project initiated by teacher librarian Natalie Hartmann, graduating sixth graders at Hillside Grade School were invited to leave a lasting mark on their school. The project asked students to design and paint the cover of a book that held special meaning for them during their time at Hillside.
Sixteen sixth graders volunteered for the project, dedicating eight to 12 morning sessions in the library to bring their artwork to life. They selected a wide range of books, including picture books, graphic novels, nonfiction and chapter books. Each student also wrote a thoughtful reflection explaining why their chosen book was meaningful, how it impacted them as a reader, changed their worldview or reminded them of their time at Hillside.
Ms. Hartmann stated that she hopes this becomes an annual tradition, giving future sixth graders an opportunity to reflect on their reading journeys while contributing lasting beauty to the library through their artwork.
