Welcome to our celebration of International School Library Month (ISLM) 2025!

Hungary – Bringing Stories, Art, and Families Together Through ISLM

Our next highlight comes from Hungary, where the school library became a vibrant space for creativity, storytelling, family participation, and international collaboration during the celebration of International School Library Month.

Under the guidance of Anikó Csilla Kovács, the Hajdúböszörmény Bethlen Gábor Primary School organized a variety of engaging activities that inspired students and families to connect through books, art, and shared reading experiences.

One of the major highlights was the city-wide illustration competition based on the theme “My Favorite Animal Story.” Students created imaginative artworks inspired by beloved animal tales. The best illustrations were proudly exhibited, and the winners were awarded books in recognition of their creativity and artistic expression.

The school also enthusiastically participated in the International Bookmark Exchange Project. Eight classes worked together to create an impressive collection of 174 handmade bookmarks. These bookmarks were sent to partner schools in Croatia and Slovenia, promoting international friendship and cultural exchange through reading and creativity. The school also planned to display the received bookmarks in the school hall to celebrate the global connection created through the project.

Another memorable activity was the Story Buffet, organized under the warm and nostalgic theme “Grandmother Tells.” Mothers, grandmothers, grandchildren, and students gathered together to share beloved childhood stories and read meaningful passages from their favorite books. The event beautifully strengthened intergenerational bonds while celebrating the joy of storytelling and reading together. The gathering concluded with refreshments, creating a welcoming and joyful community atmosphere.

The International School Library Month celebrations concluded with the award ceremony for the city illustration competition, marking the end of a successful and inspiring series of activities that highlighted the important role of school libraries in fostering creativity, literacy, family engagement, and lifelong learning.

Submitted by:
Anikó Csilla Kovács
Teacher Librarian, Hajdúböszörmény Bethlen Gábor Primary School