Janine McPherson, Frensham Junior School’s Librarian
For many years, the Birthday Book tradition has been a cherished part of Frensham Junior School, fostering a love of reading while creating a lasting historical record of students’ time at the school. Since its inception in the 1980s, the tradition has allowed students to contribute to the library in a meaningful way, with each book carrying a personal touch from its donor.
How the Birthday Book Tradition Works
Each year, students in Kindergarten to Year 6 have the opportunity to participate in this special tradition. As the Librarian at Frensham Junior School, I celebrate each student’s birthday by inviting them to the library to choose a book from a specially curated selection.
Once a book is chosen, the student will read and engage with its story in order to create a beautifully detailed illustration of their favourite page or element from the book. I will then design a personalised bookplate, which I place at the front of the book with the illustration, recording their name, birthday, and the year of donation.
Finally, the student will write a review and share the book with their peers at a Friday Performance Assembly. Students will then see their book added to the library collection, where it can be enjoyed by all students for years to come.
A Historical Record of Student Contributions
The significance of the tradition extends beyond the Junior School years. When former Frensham Junior School students reach Year 12, they revisit their Birthday Books as part of their farewell assembly, reflecting on their journey at Frensham and the legacy they have left behind.
A Legacy of Literacy and Community
Each donated book serves as a lasting record of a student’s time at Frensham Junior School. When a book is catalogued, the donor’s name is included, allowing future students to search the library and see who contributed it. This program allows the library collection to grow, becoming a comprehensive and evolving reflection of student interests and reading preferences.
In 2024, over 70 books were donated, each one representing a student’s enthusiasm for literature and their connection to the school community. The excitement of presenting a Birthday Book at assembly is a highlight for many students, giving them a sense of pride and ownership in the library’s collection.
More than just a book donation program, the Birthday Book tradition at Frensham Junior School instils a sense of community, celebrates student agency, and ensures that the library remains a vibrant, student-driven space for years to come.