Bringing Classes into the Public Library: A Handbook for Librarians [Paperback]

Martha Seif Simpson (Author), Lucretia I. Duwel (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0786428066 | ISBN-13: 978-0786428069 | Publication Date: March 21, 2007

With so much competing for the time of today's students, youth services librarians have an especially challenging job. How can they reach their target audience? One of the surest ways is the promotion--through the local school system--of a series of class visits to the public library. But where to begin? Choosing a grade level, contacting school officials and teachers, and planning age-appropriate programs are among the many steps that librarians must take--but may feel unprepared for. Encouraging the collaboration of professionals in public libraries and local schools, this comprehensive guide presents a detailed framework for a versatile program of class visits. Written by two public librarians with firsthand experience, it describes, in a step-by-step format, how to accomplish a structured series of class visits. The book addresses procedures, planning and implementation, and offers suggestions for both elementary and secondary school visits. Informational packets and other print materials are provided for each level. Possible challenges are discussed, with thoughts on their impact on the overall program and ways to find workable solutions. The appendices contains easily adaptable templates including sample schedules, letters to teachers and evaluation forms.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Martha Seif Simpson is head of Children's Services at Stratford Library Association in Stratford, Connecticut. She is the author of Storycraft (2001), Reading Programs for Young Adults (1997) and Summer Reading Clubs (1992). Lucretia I. Duwel is the head of Teen Services at the Stratford Library Association in Stratford, Connecticut. She has co-chaired the regional YA Roundtable of the Connecticut Library Association.

Product Details

• Paperback: 183 pages
• Publisher: McFarland & Company (March 21, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0786428066
• ISBN-13: 978-0786428069
• Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 7 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,303,572 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars Reaching the School Age Audience, June 23, 2007

By 

Virginia Allain "(retired librarian)" (Poinciana, FL) - See all my reviews
(TOP 1000 REVIEWER)   

This review is from: Bringing Classes into the Public Library: A Handbook for Librarians (Paperback)

"One of the surest ways for youth services librarians to reach their target audience is the promotion of a series of class visits to the public library. But where to begin? Choosing a grade level, contacting school officials and teachers, and planning age-appropriate programs are among the many steps." (summary by South TX Library System)
This book helps the youth services librarian prepare for a worthwhile school and public library relationship. Getting children into the library is the first step to turning them into lifelong readers.