Library,
Kaichi Tokorozawa Elementary and Secondary School

A welcoming, open retreat at the heart of the school

Kaichi Tokorozawa Elementary and Secondary School, which opened in 2024, is a rare educational institution in Japan where students from all 12 grades—from elementary first graders to high school students—learn together under a single four-story Building. One of the defining features of the elementary division is its cross-grade “home” groups, which bring together students from the first through fifth grades. By sharing morning meetings, lunches, and school events, children naturally learn from and support one another across age groups, fostering rich interpersonal skills and a strong sense of community.
The library serves as the central hub of the first floor, which is primarily used by students in the first through fifth grades. Designed entirely without doors, the open-concept space allows children to move freely in and out, creating a calm and welcoming environment where they can relax naturally. Seamlessly connected to the surrounding areas, the library functions as an everyday gathering place—not only for scheduled reading classes, but also during recess, after school, or whenever students feel inspired to pick up a book.
Since the school opened, library management and book lending operations have been carried out collaboratively by the student library committee and faculty members. The shelves are also filled with books donated by parents, reflecting a community-wide effort to nurture the space. In the summer of 2025, Kotobuki Seating delivered its CU22 system to further enhance the children’s learning environment.

Immersive reading in any posture: Seating designed for children

At the rear of the library is the tiered Cushion Bench, providing 42 seats across four levels—enough to comfortably accommodate an entire class. As soon as recess begins, children naturally gather on the benches to read side by side. The distinctive L-shaped cushions gently support the lower legs, allowing students to relax comfortably in a variety of postures, whether sitting upright or leaning forward to use the tier surface like a tabletop. For additional safety, sturdy handrails are installed on both sides of the unit.
Because the seating is used daily by many active children, hygiene and durability were important considerations. The benches are upholstered in highly durable vinyl leather that can be wiped clean easily, while the cushions themselves can be removed without tools and washed whenever necessary. The color palette—a balanced combination of beige, orange, green, and brown—was carefully selected by faculty members using a scale model to create a warm and calming atmosphere.
Since the introduction of the Cushion Bench, the library has expanded beyond its role as a reading space and now also hosts activities such as music class recitals during recess. Although the tiered seating remains deployed for everyday use, it can be folded vertically against the wall using a dedicated handle whenever a larger open floor area is required. This flexibility allows the library to transition smoothly from quiet reading activities to lively events and gatherings.

Facility overview

Opened in 2024, Kaichi Tokorozawa Elementary and Secondary School is an innovative educational campus that provides a continuous 12-year curriculum within a rich natural environment. Students spend their first six years in the elementary division before progressing to the secondary division for the remaining six years, all under a unified educational philosophy.
The elementary division places a strong emphasis on integrating reading into daily life, incorporating dedicated reading periods into both morning routines and regular classes to foster lifelong reading habits. At the core of the school’s educational approach is “Inquiry-Based Learning.” By taking advantage of the natural surroundings of Higashi-Tokorozawa, collaborating with local businesses, and organizing grade-specific fieldwork programs, the school encourages students to actively question, explore, and solve real-world challenges. The campus also includes a 369-seat multipurpose hall, providing a venue where students can present and celebrate the achievements of their learning.

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