The Benefits of Reading
Although checking a book out this year may look different, it is still just as easy. “Book stacks are closed to students and staff” as the paper says, so you must request a book title to the library staff or use the bookhub form to put a book on hold (photo by M. Putnam).
As people grow up, they tend to stray away from activities they used to love as kids. Drawing, playing games, and sleepovers are all things that most people outgrow at a certain age, but one that should not be forgotten is reading. As people get older, many feel they do not have enough time in their day to read anymore. This should not be the case, as reading is very important.
“It’s important for students to read because reading makes you a better person. Reading, and especially reading for pleasure, has such a positive impact on academic achievement and future success,” Rebecca Fawcett, SHHS Librarian, said.
The benefits of reading a book can be deeper than it appears. Not only is it scientifically proven to boost mental health and lower stress, but it can also make readers better people in general.
“Readers have more empathy for others. Stories can serve as a mirror, reflecting your experience in the world. But they also serve as a window to help us understand the world from someone else’s perspective,” Fawcett said.
Even with all of these benefits, one could still say they do not have the time to read. They are just too busy and too tired to sit down and read a book. However, people make time for things that are important to them. People have the time to scroll through their phones for hours, so maybe they could cut back the screen time an hour and put that time towards reading a book.
“For students who think they don’t have time to read, I challenge you to read a book for 15 just minutes a day. Chances are you will get hooked on the story and will find more time to read,” Fawcett said.
Another option for busy students is to listen to audio books. The library has access to Axis360, where students can find books that they want to listen to. It is common for people to listen to books in the car, while doing homework or chores, really anything. Getting lost in a book can make the time pass much faster.
Teachers and administrators are encouraging students to read as well.
“Our administrators value reading. They are supportive of our library and of our English teachers who encourage students to read every day,” Fawcett said.
Most of the English teachers in the school put aside ten minutes of their class time three times a week for reading. This adds up to thirty minutes of class time each week, which shows how much the English teachers value reading books. Administrators are always looking to fund the library so they can stay up to date with the latest books and ebooks for the students.
When considering the benefits and moral values reading can have on a person, it is logical to start reading more often; even if that is just ten minutes a night. The high school provides everything a student could need and more to start reading, all a student has to do is check into the library and Fawcett will get them taken care of.
Hi, I'm Mallory Putnam and I'm a junior this year. This is my first year in SPUB, which I am very excited for all of the new opportunities it brings. I...