The optional libraries are collections of engaging books, at various levels, for independent reading or read-aloud situations.

Instructional plans for several DSC programs require that students read independently, in books appropriate for their reading level. Students learn to apply the literacy strategies they are learning to their independent reading. In some programs, teachers read aloud. Classroom discussion may focus on literacy strategies or social values—or both.

The DSC libraries, available in small sets as well as complete collections, enable teachers to create “just right” libraries for their classrooms.