Do you run any book clubs at your library? Who are they for, adults, teens, tweens, elementary aged readers? Maybe they are even intergenerational? You may be saying “yes” to all of these. At my library we have a number of well established book clubs for adults, who really run things on their own. But kids need a little more structure and frankly, connection with us, their librarians. Running a book club or two (or more) is a great way to connect with readers, promote trying a genre or format outside one’s comfort zone, and build friendships and skills.
Grandparents and Grandkids: Making Cents Together
Every year, National Grandparents Day is celebrated the first Sunday after Labor Day. This holiday is not as popularly celebrated as Mother’s or Father’s Days, but that gives libraries an opportunity. More of our families might be available to attend a program honoring grandparents and other close older adults because they don’t have plans of their own. On Saturday, September 12, the Brooklyn Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library held an all-day financial-themed Grandparents Festival. Around 200 people enjoyed a variety of activities throughout the day, kicking off with a money-theme storytime courtesy of the children’s librarian, which included a special appearance by Mr. Monopoly (aka her 15-year-old son who volunteered his time that day). Mr. Monopoly was available for photo opportunities throughout the day. Crafts and play were also available. Children could press images onto a coin purse in the branch’s Innovation Center. A local organization, the Holden Arboretum,…
Why Moments of Boredom Can Become Powerful Learning Opportunities in Children’s Libraries
The most common response we get from kids, when they say “I’m bored”, is to try and fix the problem. What if we didn’t always have to? When kids feel bored, they often wander into areas of the library they wouldn’t typically enter. Boredom itself is unlikely to serve as a learning opportunity; but what kids do after that could potentially lead to a number of possibilities.
Looking Forward to Teen Services Development Day at ALSC National Institute
This will be my first time attending ALSC National Institute and I couldn’t be more excited that the first day is dedicated to teen services development. As a former elementary school teacher and now an early literacy researcher, I feel confident navigating the landscape of children’s literature. But as my work expands to include supporting teachers who serve striving adolescent readers and my niblings enter their teens, I have become acutely aware of my limited knowledge of youth literature. I know what was popular in my youth (e.g., Gossip Girl and Twilight). And I’ve thankfully stumbled across some great t(w)een reads monitoring the list of books challenged in my local school district (e.g., Pet by Akwaeke Emezi). And coding for Diverse BookFinder (e.g., You’ve Goth My Heart by L.C. Rosen). But if I am to serve secondary teachers well—and maintain my status as the “cool aunt”—I’m going to need more than…
2027 Pura Belpré Award – A Call for Title Suggestions
My name is Dr. Emily Aguiló-Pérez, and I am the proud chair of the 2027 Pura Belpré Award Committee. Our committee is now accepting suggestions for the 2027 Pura Belpré Award, and we would love to hear from ALSC and REFORMA members as we undertake this exciting work.
The Perfect Books for Phoebe Bridgers’ Lost Weekend
It’s September, a month filled with fun celebrations like Hispanic Heritage Month, the start of a new school year, and the return of fall beverages to coffee shops everywhere. But this year, there is another great reason to celebrate. Phoebe Bridgers starts her new tour, The Lost Tour, to celebrate the release of her latest album, Lost Weekend. If you were lucky enough to get tickets, congratulations! Bridgers’ show is sure to be a treat. This is a great time to let your patrons know about the connection between rock music and librarianship. Here are some young adult novels to read to celebrate this new album and tour.
Call for Suggestions: 2027 Geisel Award
The 2027 Geisel Committee welcomes ALSC membership to suggest titles for consideration for this year’s award.
Making Public Libraries More Navigable for Student Readers
The school year is upon us! As the seasons shift, so do our roles as literacy guides. In a previous post, Joannie Lauria beautifully outlined how librarians become the intermediaries between school learning and reading for pleasure. No one has a finer grasp on this balance than School Librarians! I am constantly inspired by how children use their school library spaces and interact with school library staff. We can look to school libraries for models in supporting students in navigating those two worlds and creating library spaces that support student use.