Rahway Second Graders Celebrate First Library Field Trip

Franklin Elementary students explore the Rahway Public Library and receive their first library cards.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:19pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of children's hands holding books, surrounded by soft, blurred pools of warm light and color, conveying a sense of discovery and wonder in the world of reading.The Rahway Public Library field trip sparked a joyful celebration of storytelling and community for these young readers.Rahway Today

The second-grade students from Franklin Elementary School in Rahway, New Jersey recently took their first field trip of the year to the Rahway Public Library. Led by teachers Alicia Scipioni and Kelly Brennan, the students spent the morning immersing themselves in the world of literacy, receiving their very own library cards and designing custom keychain holders to celebrate their new 'keys to the library'.

Why it matters

This field trip aimed to foster a genuine love of reading and connect the students with their local community resources. By introducing the students to the Rahway Public Library, the teachers are showing them that they are part of a supportive network that encourages their curiosity and academic success.

The details

During the visit, the students enjoyed a special storytime with Children's Librarian Liz Karstadt, who read the picture book Guess Again! by Mac Barnett and sparked laughter and excitement throughout the library. The students returned to school with new books, custom keychains, and a newfound enthusiasm for their hometown library.

  • The second-grade students from Franklin Elementary School recently took the field trip.
  • The field trip took place this week.

The players

Alicia Scipioni

A teacher at Franklin Elementary School who led the field trip to the Rahway Public Library.

Kelly Brennan

A teacher at Franklin Elementary School who led the field trip to the Rahway Public Library.

Liz Karstadt

The Children's Librarian at the Rahway Public Library who led a special storytime for the students.

Rahway Public Library

The local library in Rahway, New Jersey that hosted the field trip for the Franklin Elementary School second-graders.

Franklin Elementary School

The school in Rahway, New Jersey that organized the field trip to the Rahway Public Library for its second-grade students.

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What they’re saying

“Our goal for this trip was to foster a genuine love of reading that goes beyond the classroom walls.”

— Kelly Brennan, Teacher, Franklin Elementary School

“By connecting our students with the Rahway Public Library, we're showing them that they are part of a big, supportive community that cheers for their success and shares in their curiosity.”

— Alicia Scipioni, Teacher, Franklin Elementary School

The takeaway

This field trip highlights the important role that local libraries can play in fostering a love of reading and connecting students with their broader community. By introducing the Franklin Elementary second-graders to the resources and programming at the Rahway Public Library, the teachers are helping to cultivate lifelong learners and engaged citizens.