When author Celesta Rimington visited Countryside Elementary, she not only inspired students with a behind-the-scenes look at writing but also joined the school’s student book club for lunch. Their conversation was filled with energy, curiosity and a shared love of reading. Students eagerly discussed their favorite titles, exchanged recommendations and reflected on the joy of stories that spark imagination and connection.
The impact of that day extended well beyond Countryside. Rimington and Fidler stayed in touch, and two years later Rimington, remembering her time in LCPS fondly, included students from the Countryside team in her upcoming book set for release in 2026. The Countryside student book club continues to bring students together to read, collaborate and share their love of literature.
At Countryside, a culture of reading thrives thanks to the dedication of librarian Stephanie Fidler, teachers and administrators who create meaningful opportunities for students to grow as readers, thinkers and teammates. The experience left a lasting impression on those young readers. While the students have since moved on to middle school, their passion for books and their ability to dive deeply into stories continue to inspire the school community. Through reading, discussion and connection, they strengthened essential skills such as critical thinking, communication and problem solving, all core elements of the LCPS Instructional Framework.
This exciting outcome highlights the power of literacy programs and the essential role librarians play in guiding students on their learning journeys. By fostering exposure to both fiction and nonfiction, libraries nurture a love of reading and the lifelong skills students need to thrive inside and outside the classroom.