Community Library Programs That Work: Building Youth and Family Literacy

(Paperback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

A collection of versatile best practices for promoting literacy development by utilizing local community connections in school and public libraries. Modern libraries are recreating themselves as idea centers for today's Internet-savvy, digitally driven clientele. This book provides a fresh approach to learning as well as guidelines for creating dynamic and relevant library programs for children, teens, and families. Organized thematically, each chapter includes relevant topical research and three to eight community-focused approaches. Programs range from small, single-library initiatives in rural communities to multi-site, cross-border initiatives. This essential reference includes collaborative and locally inspired programs, many of which can be scaled to the budget of any library, school, or community organization.

Reviews

[T]here are ideas worth considering and replicating. Public libraries will welcome this as a springboard for activities that have already been successful elsewhere. * Booklist Online *
Public libraries of all sizes and resources will find ideas traditional and digital in this browseable resource. * School Library Journal *
There is no question that this book addresses the influence of online information and digital aids, but it goes beyond these tools and looks at techniques to help library relevancy when it comes to literacy. It encompasses the entire family in its quest to find how to best do this, a first step that is imperative to most literacy programs. Both budget and marketing issues are addressed and defined; collaboration between types of libraries/communities is explored. Recommended. * Teacher Librarian *
A practical compendium of programs developed by libraries and other community organizations, Community Library Programs That Work takes a very broad view of youth and family literacy by focusing on programs that build community rather than directly focusing on reading or writing skills. . . . Community Library Programs That Work takes an important step forward in its broad definition of literacy and in its insistence that libraries and other community institutions need to make community connection and engagement as their mission and build partnerships to achieve it. [T]his book is sure to inspire librarians and others to explore new ideas and expand their horizons. * CM Magazine *
This practical guide will be a useful addition to any public library looking to add innovative programming into their library that will appeal to a wide range of users and will focus on the values and identity of their community. * ARBA *

Author Bio

Beth Maddigan, MLIS, is education librarian at Memorial University Libraries of Newfoundland, Canada. Susan Bloos, MLIS, is manager of the Forest Heights Community Library in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada.