Highly caffeinated, thrilled to be here, and slightly sleep deprived, I’m amazed to already find myself more than halfway through the second day at #alamw19. It has been an absolute whirlwind of non-stop activity and I am patting myself on the back for packing comfortable shoes and snacks. The seemingly ends miles of the convention center have certainly been wearing holes in the soles of shoes!
In my limited spare moments I find myself pulling out my 2019 USBBY Outstanding International Books list from the United States Board on Books for Young People’s reception last night to research titles I definitely want to get my hands on. USBBY is the United States section of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) that works to “promote international understanding and good will through books for children and adolescents” and produces an annual list of honored international titles for children grades PreK-12th.
It was a wonderful treat last night hearing the reasoning behind these well-thought out selections, especially as some selections were highlighted in short, themed presentations. It was apparent that much consideration and careful thought went into these choices. My interest was held even for the books that I might have otherwise passed over at first glance.
I also loved the opportunity to physically see many of these books that can be harder to locate in my area. In children’s library services we focus often on crafting programs and services to children and families that foster lifelong learning, empathy, and global citizenship. What better way to promote these noble goals than to read and share books from around the world?