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Lower School Librarian | Director of Libraries
Jolabokaflod FAQ
- What is Jolabokaflod?
- Jolabokaflod is an Icelandic term that means "Yule book flood." It's a Christmas Eve tradition that involves exchanging books and reading them together.
- Why are we celebrating Jolabokaflod at Sewickley Academy?
- It's a fun way to encourage reading! Although in Iceland it is typically celebrated on Christmas Eve, Jolabokaflod is not a religious tradition.
- How can students participate?
- Students in grades 3-5 will be paired-up with a buddy. They will go to the library and choose one book for their buddy to take home over the holiday break. The book will be checked-out to the child who will be receiving it. The giving child can wrap it up, and add a note and a complimentary treat.
- Students in grades 4-5 can also choose one book to present to their Pre-K or Kindergarten buddy.
- Do we have to give the books back?
- Yes. All books remain the property of Sewickley Academy and must be returned to the library. Please check for extra books when you come back from the holiday break. Your child will not have checked this book out themselves, so they may not remember it.
- What does it cost to participate?
- Everything is complimentary.
- Does my child have to participate?
- Participation is entirely voluntary. If your child does not want to read the book presented to them, they can immediately return it to the library. They are free to keep the treat, though!
- How can children in grades 1 and 2 participate?
- Children in grades 1 and 2 may still check out books for themselves, and they will be able to look forward to participating in the Jolabokaflod book exchange when they enter grade 3.
