Library 

Reading as Windows and Mirrors 

Article by Paige Witcombe, Library Leader 

At the heart of our library program is fostering a love of reading - not only for academic success, but to help students better understand themselves and the world around them. Inspired by the work of literacy scholar Dr Rudine Sims Bishop (1990), who described books as mirrors, windows and sliding glass doors: 

• Mirrors reflect a reader’s own experiences and identity. 

• Windows offer insight into lives and perspectives different from their own. 

• Sliding glass doors invite readers to step into another world. 

   

Research shows that when students see themselves in stories, they develop confidence and a stronger sense of identity (Merga, 2022). When they read beyond their own experiences, they build empathy, cultural understanding and critical thinking - all essential skills for thriving in a diverse and interconnected world (Merga, 2022). 

How our libraries support this: 

• Themed displays, including our current Lunar New Year display, highlighting diverse voices and cultures. 

• Curated reading lists on the Oliver library catalogue to guide independent reading. 

• Book talks and personalised recommendations during library lessons.

Families may also like to explore the following websites: 

• Whichbook (whichbook.net) - choose books by mood or theme. 

• Literature-Map (literature-map.com) - discover authors similar to favourites. 

   

Encouraging your child to read widely - both for connection and perspective - supports their growth as thoughtful, confident learners. May every book your child opens offer both a mirror to recognise themselves and a window to better understand others. 

Happy reading! 

References 

1. Bishop R. S. (1990). Mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors. Perspectives, 6(3), ix–xi. 

2. Merga, M. (2022). School libraries supporting literacy and wellbeing. Facet.