Library 

Building Reading Stamina 

Article by Paige Witcombe, Library Leader Yirramboi Campus 

In the library, we often talk about the importance of reading - but just as important is how long students are able to read for. Building reading stamina is essential for developing strong comprehension and deep thinking. 

Books ask something different of our students. They require focus, patience, and the ability to remain present long enough for meaning to unfold. Unlike short online texts or quick bursts of information, sustained reading invites students to slow down, follow ideas over time, and fully engage with a text. 

When students spend more time consuming quick snippets of information than engaging in extended reading, their ability to concentrate can begin to waver. This is not an argument against technology - digital tools are an important part of learning - but it is a reminder that deep reading needs to be actively protected and practised. Research emphasises that regular, sustained reading supports not only literacy development but also attention, critical thinking, and overall academic success. These are skills that grow over time through consistent practice.  

This week in the Middle School Library, students have been exploring book series, and they are a fantastic way to build reading stamina - especially over the coming holiday break. Once students are invested in characters and storylines, they are more motivated to keep reading for longer periods and to move from one book to the next. Series reading helps develop reading momentum, confidence, and the ability to stay engaged with a text over time. 

At school, we intentionally build opportunities for students to read for longer periods, helping them develop the mental endurance needed to engage with more complex texts. Just like physical stamina, reading stamina improves gradually - the more students practise, the stronger it becomes. Families can support this at home in simple ways. Encouraging children to stick with a book, even when it becomes challenging, helps build persistence and confidence. For families travelling over the holidays, audiobooks are a wonderful option – listening together in the car allows children to engage with rich language and storytelling, even on long drives. Our school’s digital platform, Wheelers ePlatform, provides access to a wide range of eBooks and audiobooks that students can borrow anytime.  

Developing reading stamina takes time, but it is a vital skill. When students learn to sustain their attention and immerse themselves in a book, they are not just becoming better readers - they are building the focus and resilience needed for learning in every area of life.