Throughout elementary school, book fairs have always been an event to look forward to. There were colorful decorations, the newest books for each age group, puzzle erasers, scented highlighters, posters, and anything a kid could dream of. Almost every student can recall the feeling of entering the library and writing down the top five books you wanted and being handed a Scholastic Magazine that featured the best-selling books from that year. Whether you came for the books or the toys, the experience was amazing for all. Yet, the event was stripped away once students entered junior high, some even earlier. It is understandable that the schools would do this; the children are growing older and most likely aren’t as interested in books as they used to be. However, a recent survey contradicts this idea. 86% of students have voted that they wished book fairs were still hosted at their schools. One ELA class made it a topic of conversation in which the students voiced their opinions and the nostalgia that came with the event. “So, why don’t we bring them back?” was the question most asked.  

Many companies do not believe they would make enough money if they came to the high schools. However, this ideology isn’t necessarily true. Students from all four years have stated that they still want the toys, newest books, and scented highlighters. Realistically, having students from four different grades in one school should result in more money being made than one with three grades. Also, almost all high schoolers have their own money and control of what they choose to buy. Therefore, they are more likely to spend a higher amount and purchase more things than a group of elementary students, who are each allowed no more than fifteen dollars.  

“Just because we are getting older, does not mean that we should be deprived of these experiences,” an anonymous student shared.  

When asked what students missed most in Book Fairs, responses varied. Some resonated with the idea of having family with them as they browsed through the new selection of books. Others preferred walking around with friends, getting the best deals, and feeling mature as a kid while carrying around money. Yet, the most popular response was the sense of nostalgia that Book Fairs hold. 

 “I think we should bring them back because it brings us all together. I believe that we should all have some more fun at book fairs together,” says Aiden Gade. 

Following the idea of reminiscence, 89% of students have voted that they do in fact miss the book fairs and would be open to attending one if given the opportunity. A few reasons provided as to why they should be brought back are: 

1. Students can socialize and find similarities with one another. 
2. It encourages students to buy books. 
3. Companies can make a profit while brightening a student’s day. 
4. Students can get involved in volunteering or taking part in raffles. 

“It would be a great idea for fundraising multiple clubs/events if they started back up.” -Riley Jankowski. 

This idea remains true. If a Book Fair were to be held for a cause, schools could raise hundreds of dollars to put towards the organization they are supporting. Even if the profit comes from raffles, scented erasers, invisible ink pens, or books themselves, the money can be put towards a beneficial cause such as homeless shelters, research facilities, or even our school itself. Regardless, over 80% of West students have expressed that they miss the fairs and would attend another if given the opportunity to. These book fairs hold so much happiness and excitement for all ages and should not be reserved solely for younger audiences.  

Note:  The West Library will be hosting used book sales in December and May with the Environmental Action Club.   The librarian has also been in contact with Scholastic Book Fairs after this article was written.