AR BookFinder is a free online resource for finding Accelerated Reader (AR) books. Accelerated Reader is a daily assessment program that monitors a student’s reading progress. Created by Renaissance Learning, the software is widely used by primary and secondary schools in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Renaissance Learning’s technology-based tools are designed to enhance core curriculum and personalize learning practices in reading, writing, and math. It helps teachers monitor daily activities for students of all levels. Students who use accelerated learning programs often achieve higher test scores on state and national academic assessment tests.
AR BookFinder is one of Renaissance Learning’s most popular online resources. The website is used by students, parents, teachers, and librarians. It features the AR BookFinder Quick Search, as well an advanced search option and access to three different types of book collections.
The Quick Search tool allows students and adults to search for Accelerated Reader books by title, author, or subject. Users simply type a name, word, or phrase in the search box and click “Go.†They can then print their search results, sort the list, add titles to a personal book bag, or start over with a brand new search.
The advanced search function allows AR BookFinder users to refine a search through customization. By selecting a particular quiz type, release date, interest or reading level, or topic, users can narrow their search, focusing on books that meet certain criteria.
Users can also search for AR books in specific collections: award books, state lists, and librarian picks. Award books include ALA Notable books, Caldecott Medal winners and honor books, Newbery Medal winners and honor books, and Coretta Scott King award winners and honor books.
State lists present required reading and recommended reading for each state in the United States. It features Accelerated Reader books on some of the most popular readings lists for students. For example, users can find titles for Florida’s Sunshine State Young Reader’s Awards, Maryland’s Black-Eyed Susan Book Awards, and the Texas Bluebonnet Awards,
AR BookFinder also features Librarian Picks for upper, middle, and lower grades. These are librarian recommendations for books published during specific years. AR BookFinder features Librarian Picks for 1997 through the current year.
AR BookFinder is a valuable resource for students of all ages. Choosing just the right books is fun and easy with the free online search tools from Renaissance Learning. With a few keyboard strokes and the click of a mouse, students can find the most appropriate books for their reading and interest levels.
A “Help†button makes using the online resource even easier. Located in the upper right corner of every AR BookFinder page, this tool provides helpful information for users, such as how to use the various features on the AR BookFinder website.
In addition to the search tools, AR BookFinder features the AR BookBag, where students can create their own unique book lists. Although they cannot save their lists in AR BookFinder, students can print the lists and take them to the library or bookstore.