We all know about the importance of creativity for children of all ages, but how can we be even more intentional and informed as we provide opportunities to create in our libraries?
Lucky for us, ALSC has recently published Curiosity Creates: Innovative Library Programming for Children – a document that gives a behind-the-scenes look at the successful Curiosity Creates Grant applicants. With everything from resource lists to keys to success, this document will have you excited 
about the ways that you can create at your library!
And while you’re at it, head on over to the ALSC YouTube channel to watch a short video about more successful Curiosity Creates Grant projects or check out Aimee Strittmatter’s recent ALSC blog post!
Need more inspiration?
- Check out the Curiosity Creates ALSC Chat from February 11, 2016 and follow the conversation at #alsccreates.
- Visit the Center for Childhood Creativity’s website to read mind-blowingly accessible research documents about the Critical Components of Creativity in Children, about ways that we can foster shared discoveries between parents and children, about ways that libraries can promote childhood creativity, and about ways that we can use the components of creativity when reimagining school readiness. When you read these documents, be proud that you’re living out the ALSC Competencies of Commitment to Client Group, Programming Skills, and Professionalism and Professional Development!
- Enjoy Lisa Nowlain’s ALSC Blog post that gives a fun, comic summary of the CCC’s Critical Components of Creativity in Children.
If it is true that “the future belongs to a very different kind of person with a very different kind of mind – creators and empathizers, pattern recognizers and meaning makers,”(Daniel Pink, “A Whole New Mind”) then how are you working to shape these new leaders through your library programs, spaces and collections? How are you an expert at infusing creativity into your library?
Let us know in the comments below!
Skye Corey, Youth Services Librarian at the Meridian Library District (ID), is writing this post for the Public Awareness Committee. She can be reached at scorey@mld.org