If "library bag" has just popped up on the back-to-school list, you're not alone in wondering what exactly the school wants. Is it a book bag? A home reader bag? Does any old tote do? Here's what a library bag is, why schools ask for one, and what to look for so borrowed books make it home and back in one piece.
What is a library bag?
A library bag is a flat, protective bag kids use to carry school library books between the classroom, the library and home. Most are roughly A4 sized with a fold-over flap and a carry handle, so books stay flat and covered instead of being squashed into the bottom of a backpack next to a leaky drink bottle.
You'll also hear it called a book bag, a home reader bag or a reader bag. Different schools use different names, but it's the same job: keep books safe on the way to and from school.
Why do schools ask for a library bag?
School libraries lend out the same books week after week, and a bag is the simplest way to stop them getting wet, torn or lost. Many schools won't let kids borrow on library day without one, so it's worth checking your school's list and packing it on the right day of the week.
Library bag vs home reader bag vs homework bag
- Library bag: carries borrowed library books on library day.
- Home reader bag: carries the nightly reader and reading log between home and the classroom, usually in the early years of primary.
- Homework or book bag: keeps sheets, workbooks and exercise books flat inside the backpack, handy right up to high school.
One good bag can do all three jobs, which is one less thing to buy, label and keep track of.
What to look for in a school library bag
- Fits A4: so library books, readers and display folders go in without bent corners.
- A closure that little hands can manage: a velcro flap is quick to open and close without help.
- Water-resistant fabric: to protect borrowed books from drizzle and drink bottle spills.
- A carry handle: so it can be carried on its own on library day.
- Easy to spot: a bold colour helps it come home with the right child.
- Room to label: add your child's name so it doesn't end up in lost property.
Does the library bag need to match the backpack?
It doesn't have to, but a matching set does make mornings easier. When the backpack, library bag and pencil case all come in the same colourway, kids can spot their own gear quickly and it's obvious when something's missing. That's exactly why we made our Spixal kids library bags in the same colours as the Axis Kids Backpack, in water-resistant cotton twill with a velcro flap and carry handle.
Want the whole set in one go? Every Axis Kids Backpack Bundle comes with the backpack, a matching library bag and a matching pencil case.
Library bag FAQs
What size should a library bag be?
Look for one that fits A4. That covers most library books, readers and school folders.
Can a library bag go inside the backpack?
Yes. A flat library bag slides into the backpack, which keeps books protected and stops them getting crumpled.
Do high schoolers use library bags?
Plenty do, as a book bag that keeps textbooks, exercise books and homework organised inside the backpack.
Less chaos, more calm.