1-Thing Wednesday: Destiny Quest

Using Destiny Quest has become an extension of the work we do with students throughout the year. When students were in Grades 3 - 5, using Destiny Quest was regular practice during scheduled library classes. Once students move on to the Middle School, using Destiny Quest becomes more individualized, and it has also become part of the language arts classes.

As students come and go from the library--and as they work in study halls--they sometimes sit at a library computer to respond to friend requests in Destiny Quest and send friend request themselves, sometimes making book recommendations when they do so. Students also add books to their virtual bookshelves, adding not only books they've read themselves, but also books they've enjoyed as read alouds. 

Part of the language arts curriculum includes writing book reviews, and Destiny Quest--along with our online catalog--offer students an authentic audience for their writing. Full classes visit the library, where we talk about what makes a strong book review, and then students write two reviews in a quarter. Over time our online catalog has become a place where students can read peers' reviews and thoughts about books in the collection.

Using Destiny Quest to Promote Reading

All of our DCG libraries use the Destiny library management system which allows students to create a personal account. Once logged in, users can access Destiny Quest, allows users to do a variety of things:

• search the catalog.

• manage virtual bookshelves.

• view their accounts.

• send and receive friend requests.

• make book recommendations.

• and, write book reviews.

Recently, 6th and 7th graders reviewed the options that Destiny Quest offers, and they have the opportunity to recommend books and write book reviews. These reviews now appear in our catalog and allow students to see what others have to say about the books in our collection.

Students wrote down web address and username/password information in their planners so they would be able to access Destiny Quest in study hall or at home. All they need is a device that can access the Internet. Why not check the catalog to read the reviews that they're writing? Maybe you'll find a book that others have recommended as a great read!

Popular Titles

Here's the latest display in the library, and as you can see, it features several of our popular titles:

According to Destiny Quest, two of the most popular titles in circulation include Artichoke's Heart and The Truth About Truman School, both of which are Iowa Teen Award nominees. Also included in the top 10 is The Dangerous Days of Daniel X, a good choice if you liked I Am Number Four. Two graphic novels are on the list: Anya's Ghost and Maximum Ride 1. Two books with severals holds placed on them also made the list: Things That Go Bump in the Night and Something Like Fate. With so many featured on the board, it's likely you've read a few of them--why not try a few more? :)