Reaching Young Readers: Essential Platforms for New Writers to Break into Schools

Are you a new writer eager to captivate young minds within schools? Getting your children’s book into schools can be an incredibly fulfilling experience. But where do you start? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the essential platforms commonly used in schools for reading books. By understanding these platforms, you’ll be well-equipped to break into schools, connect with young readers, and watch your audience grow like never before. So, grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s explore the keys to success!

1. Online Libraries: Unleash Digital Adventures
Imagine a treasure trove of digital books and audiobooks just a click away. That’s what online libraries offer, and schools often subscribe to platforms like OverDrive or Libby. These platforms provide students with a convenient way to borrow and read books digitally [1]. Here’s your roadmap to breaking into schools through online libraries:

- Do your research: Explore the digital libraries commonly used by schools in your target area. Check out the websites of OverDrive ([1](https://www.overdrive.com/)) and Libby ([2](https://www.overdrive.com/apps/libby/)) to get a feel for their services.
- Follow the guidelines: Prepare your manuscript in the appropriate digital formats required by the platform. Pay close attention to the submission guidelines provided by your chosen digital library.
- Hit the submit button: Send in your work through the platform’s submission process, ensuring it meets the genre or educational requirements. Before you know it, your book could be reaching young readers across schools!

2. Educational Platforms: Learning with a Twist
Educational platforms like Google Classroom and Microsoft Teams offer exciting opportunities to distribute digital reading materials to students [1]. These platforms go beyond traditional teaching methods and provide innovative ways to engage young minds. Here’s how you can utilize educational platforms to break into schools:

- Be a student of the platforms: Dive into the world of Google Classroom ([3](https://classroom.google.com/)) and Microsoft Teams ([4](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/products/teams)). Familiarize yourself with their functionalities and how they integrate reading materials.
- Connect with teachers: Reach out to teachers or school administrators and express your interest in contributing digital reading materials to their platform. Show them samples of your work and explain how it aligns with educational objectives or curriculum.
- Collaborate for success: Join forces with teachers to create captivating content that enhances students’ learning experiences. Together, you can take young readers on an unforgettable educational journey!

3. E-Book Providers: Unlock Imaginative Worlds
E-book providers like Epic! or BookFlix partner with schools to offer curated collections of digital books, complete with interactive features like quizzes and progress tracking [1]. Here’s how you can leverage e-book providers to break into schools:

- Explore the possibilities: Visit the websites of Epic! ([5](https://www.getepic.com/)) and BookFlix ([6](https://bookflix.digital.scholastic.com/home?authCtx=U.794217099)) and immerse yourself in the world of digital storytelling. Get a sense of their collections and submission guidelines.
- Prepare your masterpiece: Format your manuscript or educational content according to the platform’s requirements. Take note of any specific guidelines or recommendations they provide.
- Take the leap: Submit your work through the provider’s submission process, highlighting its educational value and unique features. You’re just a few clicks away from having your book become a beloved resource in classrooms!

4. Public Library Resources: Partnership for Success
Collaborating with local public libraries can open doors for schools to provide students with access to digital resources, including e-books and

audiobooks [1]. Here’s how you can tap into this opportunity:

- Connect with the libraries: Identify the public libraries associated with the schools you’re targeting. Reach out to librarians or administrators and discuss potential collaborations.
- Showcase your book’s value: Propose partnerships that involve your writing contributions to their digital resources. Highlight how your work aligns with educational objectives and supports students’ reading interests.
- Leave a lasting impact: Your book could become a favorite among young readers and a valuable addition to library collections.

Breaking into schools as a new writer may seem daunting, but with the right platforms and a sprinkle of your storytelling magic, success is within reach. By utilizing online libraries, educational platforms, e-book providers, and public library resources, you can connect with young readers and leave a lasting impression. Remember to stay persistent, follow submission guidelines, and align your work with educational objectives. So, put on your writer’s hat, embrace the adventure, and get ready to reach young readers in schools like never before!

Happy writing,
Eric G. Reid

Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief, Skinny Brown Dog Media

References:
[1] NWEA Blog: 75 digital tools and apps teachers can use to support formative… — [1](https://www.nwea.org/blog/2021/75-digital-tools-apps-teachers-use-to-support-classroom-formative-assessment/)
[2] OverDrive — [2](https://www.overdrive.com/)
[3] Google Classroom — [3](https://classroom.google.com/)
[4] Microsoft Teams — [4](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/products/teams)
[5] Epic! — [5](https://www.getepic.com/)
[6] BookFlix — [6](https://bookflix.digital.scholastic.com/home?authCtx=U.794217099)