Nonfiction Readers' Advisory

(Paperback)

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Description

The readers' advisory renaissance of the past few decades has focused almost exclusively on fiction. However, many readers relish nonfiction, not just for the information it imparts, but for reading pleasure. In fact, the concepts of genres and appeal features can be applied to nonfiction, just as they are applied to novels. This ground-breaking work addresses the issue of how readers' advisors can expand their repertoire and make better use of their library's collection by incorporating nonfiction into the RA transaction. Some of the most notable authorities on readers' advisory and reading promotionKen Shearer, Catherine Ross, Bill Crowley, Connie Van Fleet, Alma Dawson, Duncan Smith, and otherswill contribute their insights on the ramifications of this fascinating new arena of readers' advisory.

Reviews

Libraries have traditionally missed the boat by dichotomizing nonfiction and fiction, according to editor Burgin (The Readers' Advisor's Companion). This little book of essays authored by noted readers' advisory experts helps librarians understand the uses to which readers put nonfiction and why library staff need to know more about nonfiction than merely catalog subject headings.While one wishes this reference included more specific title suggestions for readers' advisory use and a concrete plan to help libraries make the mental and physical shift to a nonfiction-inclusive readers' advisory service, it's perhaps too much to ask of this first, very welcome guide specifically on the subject of nonfiction readers' advisory. Highly recommended. * Library Journal, Starred Review *
There are many tools for advising readers on fiction--what to read, what to recommend, and how to do an interview with readers to find out their interests. It is more difficult to guide those who are seeking nonfiction materials, since the quality and intent of factual writing varies so greatly. This book is a guide for those whose job it is to help patrons find what they need. While experience at the reference or reader's advisory desk is probably the best way to become skilled at patron interviews and to find what patrons need, books like this one can be a great help in speeding up the process. The book itself is entertaining to read; by the time I had finished it I was ready to hunt down many of the books mentioned in the extensive bibliographies to find more information. Recommended for any library that wants to improve its nonfiction advisory service. * Collection Management *
Anyone who regularly spends time behind a public library reference desk would do well to read this book and take to heart its message. Burgin's book will certainly find its place as a well-used resource for years to come. * MBR Reviewer's Bookwatch *
With many helpful tips for starting nonfiction advisory services by some of the most notable experts in the field--Ken Shearer, Catherine Ross, and others--this book is recommended for all public libraries, school libraries, and library school libraries. * Booklist/Professional Readiing *

Author Bio

ROBERT BURGIN is Professor at North Carolina University's School of Library and Information Sciences. He has contributed articles to a number of books, including The Readers' Advisory Companion (Libraries Unlimited, 2002), which he co-edited with Kenneth Shearer. He is President of the North Carolina Library Association.