A Library Learning Commons was transformed into a “Bookshelf Bistro,” creating a cozy café-style space with tablecloths, flowers, tea lights and background music. In this playful setting, students sampled books instead of food as part of a school-wide book tasting.

With an incredible turnout, nearly every class explored six themed tables featuring a wide range of genres, from comedy and real-life stories to new non-fiction. Younger students rotated between tables while older ones browsed at their own pace, rating each “dish” in their bistro menus. Many embraced the café theme, asking for “takeout” to sign out a favourite book or describing a selection as “delicious.”

The excitement from this event is now carrying forward into a year-long reading challenge. Participants receive a scratch card, uncover a title, read it, and write a short review. Completing six reviews earns a free book, and along the way, their recommendations fill display boards and inspire others to join in the fun.