One of the key components of the Reading merit badge is exploring books and libraries to discover the wealth of resources available to them. They learn how to navigate card catalogs and understand the organizational systems used in libraries. By exploring different sections and genres, scouts are exposed to a wide range of literary works, expanding their horizons and igniting their imagination.
In addition to exploring libraries, scouts are also required to read several books as part of the merit badge requirements. This encourages scouts to develop a reading habit and discover the joy of immersing themselves in captivating stories. Through reading, scouts enhance their vocabulary, improve their comprehension skills, and develop a deeper understanding of different cultures and perspectives. However, the Reading merit badge goes beyond personal growth. It emphasizes the importance of service and sharing the joy of reading with others. Scouts are encouraged to engage in service projects related to reading, such as reading to children or individuals with disabilities. By volunteering their time and talents, scouts not only make a positive impact on the lives of others but also cultivate a sense of empathy and compassion.
Refer BSA official site to download the workbook https://www.scouting.org/merit-badges/reading/
What are the Reading Merit Badge Requirements ?
- Do EACH of the following:
(a) Take a tour of a library. Discuss with your counselor how the library is organized and what resources and/or services are offered in the library.
(b) Learn how to search a library’s card catalog or computerized catalog by author, title, and subject.
(c) In a library, search the card catalog or computerized catalog for six books of four different types, such as poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and biographies.
(d) With the assistance of your merit badge counselor or the librarian, see if you can locate on the shelves the six books you selected.
(e) Explain what is a library card, why it is needed, and how to get one.
2. Do EACH of the following:
(a) Identify a book you have enjoyed. Find out what other books the author has written.
(b) Look at one or more “best books” lists. These can be based on year, subject, or even all time. Identify at least one book you would like to read.
3. Read four different types of books, such as poetry, fiction, nonfiction, or biographies. Do any ONE of the following for each book you have read:
(a) Write a review of the book. Include what you liked/didn’t like about the book. Include if you would recommend this book, and if so, who might enjoy reading it.
(b) Watch a movie based on the book. What was the same between the book and movie? What was different? Which did you enjoy more? Discuss this with your merit badge counselor.
(c) Give a “book talk” to your class, troop, or patrol.
4. Read a nonfiction book or magazine that teaches you how to do something like cooking, wood-building projects, video game design, science experiments, knot-tying, etc. With your counselor’s and parent’s or guardian’s permission, complete a project from the book. Share your experience with your merit badge counselor. Reading a merit badge pamphlet will not count toward completing this requirement.
5. Read about the world around you from any two sources: books, magazines, newspapers, the internet (with your parent’s or guardian’s permission), field manuals, etc. Topics may include Scouting, sports, environmental problems, politics, social issues, current events, nature, religion, etc. Discuss what you have learned with your counselor.
6. With your counselor’s and parent’s or guardian’s permission, choose ONE of the following activities and devote at least four hours of service to that activity. Discuss your participation with your counselor.
(a) Read to a sick, blind, or homebound person in a hospital or in an extended-care facility.
(b) Perform volunteer work at your school library or a public library.
(c) Read stories to younger children, in a group or individually.
(d) Organize a book swap in your troop, school, or place of worship.
(e) Organize a book drive to collect books. Donate them to an organization in need.
Requirement #1
Do EACH of the following:
(a) Take a tour of a library. Discuss with your counselor how the library is organized and what resources and/or services are offered in the library.
(b) Learn how to search a library’s card catalog or computerized catalog by author, title, and subject.
(c) In a library, search the card catalog or computerized catalog for six books of four different types, such as poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and biographies.
(d) With the assistance of your merit badge counselor or the librarian, see if you can locate on the shelves the six books you selected.
(e) Explain what is a library card, why it is needed, and how to get one.
Organization of a Library
Libraries are carefully organized to help patrons easily locate the books and resources they need. One of the key methods libraries use for organization is a system called classification, which sorts books into specific categories or sections based on their content. This system helps to create a logical and consistent arrangement, making it simple for library users to browse and find materials. The most widely used classification system in libraries is the Dewey Decimal System.
Libraries may be organized in several keyways:
- Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC): This is the most common system for classifying books in the library. It divides knowledge into 10 main classes and further divides those into 10 divisions and sections for greater specificity.
- Genre and Subject Matter: Within the systems above, books are often grouped by genre or subject matter. For instance, fiction books may be grouped separately from non-fiction, and within non-fiction, you might find sections for history, science, biography, etc.
- Media Type: Libraries typically have different areas for different types of media. There might be a section for print books, another for magazines and newspapers, a separate area for DVDs and CDs, and possibly a space for maps and other resources.
- Library of Congress Classification (LCC): This is another system used mainly in academic and research libraries. It uses a combination of letters and numbers, and it groups books into 21 broad categories.
- Special Section: This could be used for new releases or popular titles and may not follow any system rather have everything which is highly sought after by the people.
Purpose of a Library Card?
A library card is an essential tool that unlocks access to a wide range of resources and services offered by a library. Acting as a personal identification card, it enables individuals to borrow books, use library computers, explore digital content, and take advantage of various other services available at the library.
The main function of a library card is to confirm an individual’s membership and authorize their use of the library’s resources. When someone applies for a card, they provide their personal details, such as their name and address. This allows the library to track borrowed items, ensuring that materials are returned on time and that all users have fair access to the resources. This process helps preserve the library’s collection and maintain order in the lending system.
With a library card in hand, individuals can borrow books, magazines, audiobooks, and other materials for a designated period. This gives them the freedom to enjoy these items at home, at their convenience. Beyond physical materials, a library card may also provide access to a variety of digital resources, such as e-books, online databases, e-magazines, and other multimedia content, expanding the range of materials available to cardholders.
In addition to borrowing privileges, library cards often come with a host of other benefits. Cardholders may be able to place holds on books, request interlibrary loans, or attend a variety of library programs and events, such as lectures, workshops, and community activities. Many libraries also offer access to quiet study rooms, meeting spaces, and high-speed Wi-Fi, supporting both academic and professional needs. Some libraries even partner with local businesses and cultural institutions to provide discounts or exclusive offers to cardholders.
Ultimately, a library card serves to foster a deeper connection with the library and its resources, promoting literacy, supporting lifelong learning, and encouraging exploration. It empowers individuals to access a vast world of knowledge, from educational materials to recreational reading, helping them to stay informed, entertained, and engaged with the ever-evolving landscape of information and culture.
In a world where access to information is more important than ever, a library card remains one of the most valuable tools for personal and intellectual growth. It opens doors to limitless possibilities, providing individuals with the resources they need to explore new ideas, acquire new skills, and engage with the broader community.
Requirement #2
Do EACH of the following:
(a) Identify a book you have enjoyed. Find out what other books the author has written.
If a person enjoys a book say, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling, and wants to find other books written by the same author, there are a few ways to do so:
- Author’s Website or social media: Many authors have their own websites or social media profiles where they share information about their books, upcoming releases, and related works. Visiting the author’s official website or following them on platforms like Twitter or Instagram can provide valuable insights into their other works.
- Library Catalog: Checking the library catalog is a great way to find books by a specific author. Using the author’s name as a search term, you can explore their other titles available in the library’s collection. Librarians are also knowledgeable and can assist in finding additional books by the author.
- Online Bookstores: Online book retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or independent bookstore websites have author pages that list all the books by a particular author. Browsing through these platforms using the author’s name can help identify their other works.
(b) Look at one or more “best books” lists. These can be based on year, subject, or even all time. Identify at least one book you would like to read.
To find a “best books” list, students can try the following methods:
- Online Book Recommendations: Websites like Goodreads, The StoryGraph, and LibraryThing offer book recommendations and user-generated lists based on genres, themes, and reader ratings. Exploring these platforms can provide students with curated lists of popular and highly rated books.
- Award Lists: Many literary awards recognize outstanding books in various categories. Examples include the Pulitzer Prize, National Book Awards, or the Newbery Medal (for children’s literature). Checking award-winning books can be a good starting point for finding high-quality reads.
- Book Review Websites: Websites like The New York Times Book Review, Publishers Weekly, or Booklist publish book reviews and compile lists of recommended reads. Scouts can search these platforms for book recommendations and lists curated by experts.
- School or Public Library Recommendations: Librarians often create recommended reading lists tailored to different age groups and interests. Scouts can ask their school or public librarians for suggestions or browse the library’s website for curated book lists.
Requirement #3
Read four different types of books, such as poetry, fiction, nonfiction, or biographies. Do any ONE of the following for each book you have read:
(a) Write a review of the book. Include what you liked/didn’t like about the book. Include if you would recommend this book, and if so, who might enjoy reading it.
- Open with a Bang: Capture the reader’s attention right away with an engaging opening. You could ask a thought-provoking question, share a striking quote from the book, or offer a brief, intriguing summary that sparks curiosity.
- Set the Scene: Give some background on the book, including details about the author, genre, and any other relevant information that will help your reader understand the book’s context and significance.
- Summarize the Plot: Offer a brief overview of the story without giving away major spoilers. Highlight key events and characters, focusing on the aspects that make the plot compelling.
- Express your Opinion: Express your personal opinion about the book—what worked for you and what didn’t. Support your views with specific examples, such as memorable scenes, strong character development, or the author’s writing style.
- Be Balanced and Constructive: Provide a fair assessment by recognizing both the strengths and weaknesses of the book. If you found certain aspects lacking, offer constructive feedback rather than simply pointing out flaws.
- Consider the Target Audience: Keep the intended readers in mind. Discuss whether the book is suitable for specific age groups or readers with particular interests.
- Use Engaging Language: Make your review engaging by using descriptive and vivid language. Incorporate quotes or passages from the book to support your points and help create a connection between the book and the reader.
(b) Watch a movie based on the book. What was the same between the book and movie? What was different? Which did you enjoy more? Discuss this with your merit badge counselor.
Watch a movie related to your book and have a call with your counselor.
(c) Give a “book talk” to your class, troop, or patrol.
- Begin with Impact: Start your book talk with an attention-grabbing hook, such as an intriguing question, a captivating quote, or a brief anecdote related to the book.
- Outline the Story: Give a concise summary of the book’s plot, introducing the main characters, setting, and conflict. Be careful not to reveal major spoilers that might spoil the reading experience for your audience.
- Explore core ideas: Discuss the main themes or messages conveyed in the book. Explain how the author explores these themes and why they are important or thought-provoking.
- Share Your Enthusiasm: Convey your enthusiasm for the book by expressing what you enjoyed most about it. Discuss specific elements that stood out, such as engaging writing style, memorable characters, or unexpected plot twists.
- Highlight Key Excerpts: Select a few well-crafted passages from the book that showcase the author’s writing style, the book’s atmosphere, or a particularly impactful moment. Read these excerpts aloud to bring the book to life for your audience.
- Engage the Audience: Encourage audience participation by asking questions or inviting them to share their thoughts and opinions about the book. This creates a dynamic and interactive atmosphere during your book talk.
- Be Mindful of Time: Keep your book talk within a reasonable time limit, ensuring you cover the key points while leaving time for questions or discussions. Practice beforehand to ensure you stay on track and make the most of your allocated time.
Requirement #4
Read a nonfiction book or magazine that teaches you how to do something like cooking, wood-building projects, video game design, science experiments, knot-tying, etc. With your counselor’s and parent’s or guardian’s permission, complete a project from the book. Share your experience with your merit badge counselor. Reading a merit badge pamphlet will not count toward completing this requirement.
When working on the Reading Merit Badge by reading a nonfiction book or magazine that teaches you how to do something, keep the following tips in mind:
Choose a Topic That Interests You: Select a nonfiction book or magazine that covers a subject you’re passionate about or have always wanted to explore. Whether it’s cooking, woodworking, coding, science experiments, or any other skill, choose something that sparks your curiosity.
Plan Ahead: Carefully read the chosen book or magazine, paying close attention to the instructions, safety guidelines, and key concepts. Create a plan that outlines the steps for the project, materials needed, and an estimated timeline.
Gather Materials and Resources: Collect all the necessary materials for your project, such as ingredients, tools, or supplies mentioned in the book or magazine. If you need help gathering these items, don’t hesitate to ask your parents or guardian for assistance.
Follow Instructions Step-by-Step: As you work on your project, take your time to carefully follow the instructions. Understand each step before proceeding. If you’re unclear about any terms or techniques, ask your counselor or look up additional information from reliable sources.
Prioritize Safety: Safety should always come first. Be sure to follow any safety instructions in the book or magazine. Use the appropriate protective gear, like gloves, goggles, or aprons, if needed. Always seek adult supervision when working with potentially dangerous tools or materials.
Track Your Progress: Document your project as you go along. Take photos, write notes, or keep a journal to record each step, any challenges you face, and what you learn. This documentation will be helpful when you discuss your project with your counselor later.
Ask for Help When Needed: If you run into problems or have questions, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Reach out to your counselor, parents, or others who are knowledgeable in the subject for advice and support.
Complete the Project: Follow the instructions and complete the project. Review your work, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure the project meets the outlined criteria.
Reflect and Share Your Experience: After finishing the project, take time to reflect on what you’ve learned. Think about the new skills you acquired and how the project helped you grow. When you meet with your counselor, discuss your successes, challenges, and insights gained from the experience.
Remember, the learning process is just as valuable as the final result. Take pride in gaining new skills, expanding your knowledge, and experiencing the satisfaction of completing a hands-on project.
Requirement #5
Read about the world around you from any two sources: books, magazines, newspapers, the internet (with your parent’s or guardian’s permission), field manuals, etc. Topics may include Scouting, sports, environmental problems, politics, social issues, current events, nature, religion, etc. Discuss what you have learned with your counselor.
When reading about the world around you and sharing your discoveries with your counselor, consider these helpful tips:
Diversify Your Sources: To gain a well-rounded understanding, choose two different sources of reading material. These can include books, magazines, newspapers, online news sites, reputable blogs, or even field manuals related to your chosen topics. Using multiple sources exposes you to different viewpoints and deepens your understanding of the subjects you’re exploring.
Pick Topics That Interest You: Choose subjects that genuinely capture your curiosity. Whether it’s Scouting, sports, environmental issues, politics, social topics, current events, nature, or religion, picking something that excites you will make the reading and discussions much more enjoyable and engaging.
Take Notes and Annotate: As you read, jot down important points, interesting facts, and memorable quotes. This will help you retain key details and give you something to reference during your discussion with your counselor. Also, write down any questions or ideas that come to mind while reading.
Reflect on What You Read: After reading each source, take a moment to think about the main themes, ideas, or arguments you encountered. Consider how the material changes or enhances your perspective on the world and the topics you explored. Reflection helps deepen your understanding and make connections between ideas.
Prepare Discussion Points: Organize your thoughts before meeting with your counselor. Create a list of key takeaways, interesting facts, and any opinions or questions you’d like to discuss. Having talking points will help ensure a focused, thoughtful conversation.
Be Curious and Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask your counselor for clarification or suggestions for further reading. Their guidance can help expand your knowledge and deepen your understanding of the topics you’re exploring.
By following these tips for the Reading merit badge, you’ll not only gain valuable knowledge about the world but also sharpen your critical thinking skills, engage in meaningful conversations with your counselor, and enrich your Scouting experience.
Requirement #6
With your counselor’s and parent’s or guardian’s permission, choose ONE of the following activities and devote at least four hours of service to that activity. Discuss your participation with your counselor.
(a) Read to a sick, blind, or homebound person in a hospital or in an extended-care facility.
(b) Perform volunteer work at your school library or a public library.
(c) Read stories to younger children, in a group or individually.
(d) Organize a book swap in your troop, school, or place of worship.
(e) Organize a book drive to collect books. Donate them to an organization in need.
Reading to Others for the Reading Merit Badge
To fulfill this requirement, reach out to hospitals, care facilities, or community organizations to explore opportunities to read to individuals who would benefit from your service. You can also coordinate with schools, daycare centers, or local groups to arrange storytelling sessions for younger children.
Choose Suitable Material: Select reading material that is appropriate for the audience you’ll be reading to. Make sure it matches their interests and meets their needs, whether it’s a book for children, an engaging story for seniors, or something informative for a different group.
Engage with Expression: When reading to children, use expressive and animated storytelling techniques. Vary your tone, use facial expressions, and act out parts of the story to capture their attention and make the experience more enjoyable.
Show Empathy and Patience: Be patient, compassionate, and attentive to the person you’re reading to. Understand their needs, whether it’s a slower pace for comprehension or offering extra attention to make the experience more comfortable and engaging.
Reflect on the Experience: After your reading session, take time to reflect on how the activity impacted both you and the individuals you read to. Consider how it made a difference in their day and discuss your experience with your counselor, including any challenges or insights you gained through the service.
By following these steps, you’ll not only complete a meaningful service activity but also gain valuable experience in reading to others and developing your communication and empathy skills.
Organizing a Book Drive or Book Swap for the Reading Merit Badge
To complete this requirement, follow these steps to organize a successful book drive or book swap event:
Get Permission and Identify a Cause: First, seek approval from the appropriate authority (such as a school, library, or community organization) to host the event. If you’re organizing a book drive, identify an organization in need of books, such as local schools, shelters, or community centers.
Promote the Event: Spread the word about the event by creating and distributing flyers, posting announcements on community bulletin boards, or sharing details on social media. Make sure to highlight the purpose of the event and encourage people to get involved.
Organize the Book Swap: For a book swap, set up a system where participants can bring books they no longer need and exchange them for books they want. Clearly define any rules, such as book categories or the number of books each person can swap, to ensure a smooth process.
Coordinate the Book Drive: If organizing a book drive, establish collection points where people can drop off their donations. Plan how to collect, sort, and organize the books before delivering them to the designated organization or community center. Be sure to manage the logistics so that the donated books reach the intended recipients.
Reflect on the Experience: After the event, take time to reflect on the importance of sharing and exchanging books. Consider how the book swap or drive helped foster a love for reading, benefited the participants, and made a positive impact on the community. Share your thoughts with your counselor, discussing what you learned and how the experience contributed to the community.
By following these steps, you will not only help provide access to books for those in need but also create an opportunity for people to come together and share their love for reading.
