Drag Queen Story Hours: An Open Discussion

For several libraries the decision to provide story hours is not a hard one, and trying to find a program that everyone likes can be difficult at times.  Many factors go into deciding what programs to provide and which to put aside.  In Huntington Woods Michigan, the decision to provide Drag Queen Story Time (DQST) for children as young as  preschool age proved to be a popular hit and a controversial one as well.   Pro family groups have begun to show their displeasure of the program and demand that city officials take this program out of th library and into the dumpster.   This has definitely become a social political debate that has the potential to get out of control.  Before getting all worked up over this library program,  there are questions that should be asked.  It does not matter where your political leanings fall,  whether you are conservative or liberal,  this topic must be approached with objectivity.

When asking the following questions keep in mind the a library, large or small, is a reflection of the community it serves.  First question is this:  what is the community of Huntington Woods like?   Is it liberal leaning?  Does it promote LGBT leaning agendas in their schools, businesses or government?   How many attendees go to the Drag Queen Story Time ?   If it is a popular program, don’t expect it to go away that quickly.  Last but not least,  what is the objection to the storytime?  Answering the questions with honesty will open the doors to better communication and ultimately a solution that is acceptable for all.  Let’s begin with the first question.

Hunting Woods is demographically and politically Democrat.   It is your typical blue collar/middle class suburbs in Oakland County that is close in proximity to Ferndale Michigan.  For those who are not familiar with the area,  Ferndale is known as a friendly, accepting LGBT city.  It is interesting to note that the Ferndale Public Library does not have a Drag Queen Story Hour, but that may change due to the popularity of Berkley and Huntington Woods library programs.   With this being said, it can be argued that the library is reflecting the makeup of the community and providing programs  that the community wants, or at least a majority of the community.   The proof in the demand for the program is evidence in attendance.  

The main objection to the program that the pro-family groups have is that it is promoting a lifestyle and beliefs on children who are too young to understand what "fluid" gender means.  In other words, it goes against what they believe is to be wrong, inconsistent with religious teaching and natural law. This is going to be a tough pill to swallow, but  if we were to listen to what the DQSH is trying to promote, which is love and acceptance of all persons, it's going to be a tough battle to fight.  My conservative patrons will demand the rights to teach their child the morals and beliefs that are right for them.  No government representative. No school official. No neighbor, no matter how well meaning,  will ever be given the right to tell them how to raise their child.   They are absolutely correct in that assertion and demand.  However, if a parent feels that their child will "benefit" from learning from a Drag Queen, then their rights should be upheld as well.  These parents have given consent to the Drag Queen at the Huntington Woods Public Library to read stories to their children that may or may not contain themes friendly to the LGBT philosophy.   If this program is to be discontinued it will be done solely on the basis that the popularity of the program has gone down and attendance has weakened.   Making it a headline in the newspaper only gives the program attendance strength and publicity.  That's the blunt truth.  

To liberal patrons or those who call themselves progressive, here is  a question to ponder and ask for a fair and honest response.  If the public library in your city, or county  had a program that promoted a Christian Themed Story  or  Catholic Priest Story Time for toddlers and families, would that be offensive?  Would that give cause for  protests of  the program and demands that City council remove it from the library?  What if the program was just as popular as the DQSH?  Lots of folks showing up with their children and having a wonderful time.   In over twenty-five years of working in libraries,  experience says that the uproar would be loud and huge.  A bet could be made on when the first statement of "Separation of church and state" would be uttered.

The point is that a library has held a place in communities as the place where everyone is welcomed.  All thoughts, philosophies, ideas are explored and debated in a civil manner. At least,  it was the hope that this would be the case.  Unfortunately, in our current society it is far more important to be "right" on social issues.  Librarians often find themselves to be caught in the middle of providing quality programs for the good of the community only to find activist groups on their doorsteps protesting the libraries' attempts to provided something for everyone.  Finding the balance to make everyone in the community happy is a difficult task at times.  If a parent or citizen has a problem with a library programing, there are several ways to deal with it.  One,  suggest other programs that might be interesting for the community.  Two,  don't go to the programs that do not fit your belief system. No one is forcing anyone to come to library programs.  Attendance is voluntary.  Three,  if you want to change patrons' minds about a program do with civility and a sincere interest in hearing what they have to say.  You never know with open communication an even better program might form and the community will be better for it.  

If you have any comments about this post please share them.  I welcome all comments as long as they are respectful.

First Responders in Libraries

Librarians are not first responders  Sounds like a perfectly truthful, logical statement.   Who would really expect for a librarian to perform medical emergency acts?  Sure,  librarians save the day with a much needed answer for a test or article book report.  The phrase “thanks!  You saved my life has been whispered to a librarian once or twice.  However, times have changed a bit thanks in part to the Opiod addiction that has made its grip felt on much of the country. Libraries in major cities such as Denver, Detroit and New York City have become out of necessity the defacto  day shelter for the homeless populations.  In that role, comes a new host of problems that have never been faced before.   How does this affect librarians?  Think first responders.  Think Narcan.

In most libraries, the day to day activities are most likely not going to include using life saving measures to help someone who is overdosing on drugs.  The typical day a the library is what most people would expect.  Story times, study partners meeting, book clubs and everything in between.  Since the Opioid crisis began, the drug problems that once seemed to be an “urban” issue now became “everywhere” issue.  Neighborhoods, rich or poor, urban or suburban were affected in some way by the Opioid crisis.   An astonishing number to reflect on is 19%.    That is the percentage of how many people died in the United. States due to overdose.  Astonishing,  isn’t it?    Public libraries began to have the difficult discussions on what to do if a patron becomes unconscious due to an overdose?  Do nothing?  Watch them die?  Try to give medical treatment?

Of course the logical course of action in any emergency in the library is to call 911.  However, in between the call and waiting for help one could feel helpless.  Just like everything else in the world today the thought of law suit comes to mind.  If you try to help and fail, will the library be liable for cause of death.  If the library personal does nothing except call 911 will liability come in again only this time for lack of action?    It’s a tough call but it at the end of the day one has to ask themselves if it's better to bet on the side of life.  Most librarians would most likely agree that it is better to save a life than watch it slip away.

Some public libraries have adopted the policy to only call 911 services in cases of emergency.  Some of the other practices put into place is security monitoring of patrons in the building and providing medical waste canisters in the bathroom to dispose of needles.  One would question why would a public library enable their patrons to "shoot up" in their restrooms.  As one librarian put it, it's not that the library is condoning the practice, it is merely recognizing that they can not stop patrons from doing this in the bathrooms.  By not providing it, needles can end up in discarded in trash, toilets or other unsanitary places where it is does more harm than good.    A better solution would be to have bathrooms monitored and security going through the stacks to discourage the opportunity to “shoot up”.  

This is topic is especially important now because yesterday, President Trump has signed into Law H.R.  6,  The Substance Use Disorder Prevention that  Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT).  This bill aims to help with the interdiction, surveillance and disruption of illegal drugs getting into the country.  One example of how this will happen is that the Postal Service will now be able to screen packages for Fentynol that are coming into the country by way of Mexico and China.   While this is good news and gives hope that that the flow of drugs into the country can be stopped, the addiction is still a serious problem. 

The answers to the Opioid problem is complex and does not seem likely that it will be solved over night.  Legal issues will continue to arise . As professional public servants,  librarians will have to be prepared for whatever cultural problems come through the library doors.  Homeless.   Latchkey children, drug addiction or whatever else awaits on the horizons.  For now, its a safe bet to say that rest of the story has not been played out yet on this topic.  

What is Patriot Week?

A few years back in my home state of Michigan, a local Judge and his daughter decided something had to be done about renewing the American Spirit.  Judge Michael Warren,  an Oakland County judge wrote a book, America's Survival Guide which detailed how the Founding Fathers envision and sustained this country for centuries.  He goes on to express how not knowing our own history, America is doomed to fail.   After reading this book,  it lead to the inspiration of putting together a list of books about American Patriotism for children and their families to share.  It was one of the most rewarding project to date because the list proved to be a tool to help others find their love and pride of our country.    For Judge Warren, this books seems to have inspired his family to create a National Week of celebrating the American Spirit now celebrated in many states as Patriot Week,  September 11 -17.

Now some librarians and perhaps even patrons may make the argument that libraries should not be places where books, displays and programs should be one sided or biased.  After all don't we look a bit silly waving our American flag, reading wonderful books about the greatness of our Country and listening to patriotic stories and presentations that point all the good there is in our country.  It would appear that we are simple country bumpkins who don't want the whole truth.  The answer to this question is no.   Here's why: America with all it's faults and flaws is still the only country in the world where Freedom still has meaning to it's citizens.  Far too often, political idealist on both sides take for granted the freedom of speech and demonstration.   Citizens are given a right to protest, yell and complain about anything as long as it does not hurt another human being or interfere with their rights.      Marching on a side walk in front of City hall with the sign that says "Our Mayor stinks and is crooked"  will not result in an arrest.  It may spark conversation and debate, and that's okay as long as the conversation and debate is civil.

These days, the art of civil conversation seems to have disappeared.  As Americans, we have lost sight of who we are, why are country came to be and even to the point of forgetting why public libraries were opened from the beginning.  Here's a reminder:   public libraries were to store knowledge so that future generations could share knowledge, ideas and to have civil discussion about events and issues of the day.   Patriot Week aims to reignite the love of country through reading and sharing ideas which pertains to Our Founding Fathers,  Inallianble rights and honoring those who have gone before us who fought for Women's and Civil Rights.   These are very good reminders of the good that has happened and give hope that the best days are yet to come.

September 11 begins Patriot Week, with the somber reminder of  the tragedy of 9/11/01.   One book title that has become a favorite,  The Man Who Walked Between The Towers by Mordical Gerstein.  When the book was first published in 2007,  there was little hope that this could ever be put to use in a story time.   The reviews of the book didn't give much hope that it would have anything to do with 9/11 and quite frankly was the tragedy of the day a good topic for story time.  Surprisingly, this story's ending provided a subtle way of talking about the towers that would not bring about fearful images for little ones.  (K-2)  After using the story a few times for family read alongs,  a surpassing thing happened.  Parents shared with others their memories of the towers, that day or where they were.  Children learned from Oral History (fancy way of saying they heard an historical account from a primary source) what America was like in 2001.

Truth be told, libraries are at the keeper of the stories.  All the stories, novels, short, fiction and non fiction alike.  Which makes it even more important to participate in celebrations such as Patriot Week at the library.  The stories of America's spirt should be kept alike and retold as often.  Patriot Week is the perfect time to take down the books of the shelves and share them with old and young at heart.  Even if your library does not participate in this week,  reading about America is a great idea just the same.  If in need of a list of books that may help spark the American spirit within yourself or library,  email thelibrarianatlarge@gmail.com to receive a copy of the list.

So... Harry Potter Turns 20 "Yawn "

The excitement  of Harry Potter's twentieth birthday is here.  It is a time to celebrate?   Hardly.   As a matter of fact it has been blissfully quiet, pleasing and satisfying not to have heard from the annoying little British, twerp of a wizard.   The publishing world feels that it must celebrate with new cover art in hopes a new generation of young readers will be caught up with this magical world.   Frankly, here's hoping that they don't.  Why?  To be brutal  and honest the story is lame, the characters are one dimensional and there are so many other books out there that better written and more entertaining.  J.K Rowling was extremely lucky to have the book published.  What can we say, some gals have all the luck.   Before the  book is thrown  or   clicking  to close the window and returning to  your happy life, could ten minutes be spared to consider these points.

First of all the argument that J.K. Rowling's books encouraged children to read "big" books is superficial.    Librarians working  with children day in and day out know that it is the quantity of pages that is read but the quality  It's is what the children get out of the books that's important.  I would be more apt to get excited about children reading War and Peace if  "thick tomes" if that is the measurement of a good reader. 

Secondly,   her choices of adverbs and grammar syntax are quite ghastly,  awfully redundant, and splendidly, and not surprisingly boring to read.  On the upside,  readers are treated to a quick read and additionally a refresher course on all words ending in -ly.   Doesn't really do much in the way of learning new words but the adverbs keep piling on. Good thing?

Third,  C.S. Lewis, who Rowlings is often compared to, was a master of painting a picture with his words and stories.  Even after the reader has put down the book, images of Narnia lingers in the mind.  It's vivid and real.  Rowlings, is simply a sketch artist at best with her style of prose.  Yeah one remembers the name of Hogwarts however, if it were not for the Harry Potter movies,  readers would not have a clue what it would look or feel like to be walking the halls.  The literary plot and devices such as invisible cloaks,  abandoned orphan and the "special mark" on the forehead have been used ad nauseam.   Please.. something new and exciting as well.  Yawn!

Last but not least,  the fact that  Rowling has yet to have another "stellar"  novel or series, should remind readers of the old saying that lightening never strikes twice.   One could argue that her adult novels did well once it was revealed that she was writing under the pen name of  Robert Galbraith.  Before the revelation, the novels were not doing well.  Did the writing change? No it was ho-hum like before.  These days everyone is into "brand names"  in everything from clothes to computers to cars.  It would stand to reason that the brand Rowling is appealing to some readers.

Lets end with something positive.   It's not entirely Rowling fault that she decided to be a writer in the age of  instant gratification.  Her writing is genius at sketching the story to allow the reader to move on quickly to the next book. The publishers are revamping, reissuing and reinventing the series for a new audience.  For small libraries, with small budget getting the new set will hardly be worth it.  The original set will have to do.  Maybe one day they might be worth something of value.  (Doubtful that this will be true)    Having said that,  there are those readers who long for the days of when writers painted a beautiful picture  simply by using words.

It is now safe to click the window shut and go on with your happy life.

Yes Forbes Communities Do Need Their Libraries

I don’t get it.  When reading articles like the one In Forbes on July 21, 2018, which suggests that Amazon replace libraries because it would be “economical”, one has to scratch their heads.  What were the editors of Forbes thinking when they printed this article?  Seriously, this makes about as much sense as privatizing the court system, the police station and fire station.  No good can come from it.  The advocates for this silly idea have clearly not thought this through.   Honestly, they have never seen a tax they liked or needed.  In a sense, one can sympathize with their lack of confidence in government taxation and spending .   At the same time, they need to admit some government spending is needed and required for societies to flourish and grow. Libraries enrich and transform communities:  large or small, rich or poor.  Before giving into the proverbial knee jerk, and agree that the need for libraries has passed, one question should be posed to the staff of Forbes magazine.  What message are we sending to children and their parents across the nation?   Is it that investing government dollars to ensure that people have access to information is a bad thing?  Or is it that reading is not important unless you can afford it?  In my humble opinion, it is a short sighted move on the part of Forbes to advocate a smaller reader base.   This could at some point hurt their profits.   Not to be an alarmist or conspiracy theorist, but  what is really frightening is that as a society, it is increasingly the norm that children are more inclined to look at a computer screen than pick up a book.  Reading levels are dropping and the reality of an illiterate society is not that farfetched.      Icons and touch screens have made it more convenient to connect with what is wanted or needed.
 As a professional librarian and library director for over twenty-five years, this argument has been made over and over again.  Each time, it falls on it’s own hallow merits.   Just one example is the research into Public and private schools have seen reading skills boost tremendously when a full staffed library is part of the school’s curriculum.  In  study conducted to determine the effectiveness of school libraries in Michigan, it was found that elementary school who had access to a school library excelled higher in reading skills compared to those who didn’t.  This was a 35% difference in reading schools.  Those numbers are hard facts that point to the solution of poor reading skills.
Additionally, public libraries have continuously been the “bridge” to aid economically challenged neighborhoods to engage in governmental programs.  According to Pew Research in 2016, 47% of African Americans who use libraries on a regular basis go to use the libraries computer and internet access.    Those who rely on the library for assistance in finding jobs or programs for family literacy and a host of other assistance truly have nowhere else to go.  Will Amazon help someone find employment?   Can Amazon provide story times for toddlers, which help language and literacy skills development? More importantly, is this a sign from our current societal state that it is preferable to “click” on a button to receive services instead of human interaction?  Amazon is great for many things, but as a library it simply does not measure up.
   Libraries contribution to society is what one can call the intangible.     It is difficult to put a price on human growth and learning.  It is my honor to be part of an institution that has been around far longer than Artificial intelligence and has always invested in HI or otherwise known as Human intelligence.

Funding for Public Libraries Is Essential

There are many ideals, organizations and causes to fight for in this great nation of ours. Thankfully we live a society that allows the average citizen to raise concerns to their government representatives.  When this fails, citizens can take their case to the “streets” in a peaceful manner to have their voices heard.   Allow this blog to serve as a peaceful protest to gain  the  citizens attention.    Voters need to be informed on how and when government money is being spent.    When tax dollars are  spent in our Nation's capital what is the top priority?      If it is education, building up communities and supporting economic growth funding than  continuing to fund libraries should be near the top of the priorities.  
  Why is it important to bring up funding for libraries at this time?  In a nutshell, The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies (also known as Labor HHS) is working on the FY 2018 appropriations bill that includes funding for the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). Additionally, the  Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) program is also facing similar cuts.  Discussions have been focused on eliminating financial support to both programs which amounts to having 210 million dollars cut.  Without this financial support many urban and small libraries will have to make drastic cuts in hours, services and staffing.  In some cases, they may even have to close their doors.    Funding public Libraries would be the most responsible investment in America’s future that the current administration could make, yet they are choosing not to.    Despite what President Trump and his advisors believe, cutting funds to American libraries is striking down the core of community stability and economic advancements.
            Small, rural and urban libraries (making up 80.5% of America’s libraries) depend on LSTA funding to keep their doors open.  What it means for the citizens and patrons of the library is not only access to information in print or electronic, but also programs for lifelong learners of all age.  This includes the little ones preparing to enter preschool to senior citizens.   Libraries are the heart of every community where folks,  in good times and bad, find the one sources where information is available to everyone.  .  When looking for a job to help put food on the table to discovering what to make for dinner from a new cookbook that has just been released.  Allow me to illustrate what cuts in the LSTA  would  mean for a community similar to the one I serve just outside of Detroit.
            Cuts would mean that hours of operations would be jeopardized. This is not a threat it’s a reality.  To bring things closer to home, at one point our library was open five days, 39 hours a week.  Today,  we are at 3 days,  21 hours a week. Patrons have remote access to the library on days that are closed, but only if they have a computer at home.  Most do not.  That’s one’ of the major reasons they come to the library.  In 2011, when Detroit was experiencing the worst of economic times, due to property taxes falling, the Detroit Public Library had to close four branches.  These branches were in areas that had businesses closing, houses abandoned, and a failure in many other city services.  In short,  the surrounding community failed and thus so did the libraries.  One would think that when communities come back from hard economic times, so will their neighborhood libraries.  That’s not always the case as is proven in the Detroit Public Libraries and surrounding urban areas such as Royal Oak Township.  In areas where libraries need financial support the most government funding is often the only hope for a library.
            Resources, such as computers, books and DVDs, would also be in jeopardy.  The library has become the place where the return on investment can be seen each time patrons check out materials.   Going hand in hand with that are the computers needed for internet access allowing patrons to apply for jobs, government assistance even communicating with the local school districts about their child education The Internet has made the library a much needed resources to those who are not able to afford the luxury at home. In a sports analogy, libraries level  the field when it comes to  information access for all.
            Programs, such as the Summer Reading Programs which is just around the corner, will no longer be funded or available for children to attend.  The effects of this would be a slide downwards in reading skills across the board.  The library’s summer reading programs offer children the opportunity to keep their reading skills current during the summer which prepares them for the coming school year.  Studies have shown that children living in poor neighborhoods are less likely to have access to children books in the home.  If breaking the poverty cycle is a goal of government then keeping libraries funded and open is a good first step in that direction.
More importantly than all of the reasons just mentioned,  the library offers a safe place for kids after school.  Many of the children I serve are living in homes were both parents are working two or three jobs.  They come to the library to do homework, catch up with friends or find the right spot for them to unwind with a game or book after school.  Currently, our library closes at six and closed on weekends.  This leaves our patrons looking to use library resources in other communities.  Which can be a hassle in some cases due to lack of library privileges or as in most cases, transportation.  If the Trump administration is looking to strengthen Detroit and other metropolitan cities, it would benefit them to continue funding LSTA.  By this action alone they will be supporting one of the few institutions that support the communities’ lifelong educational needs.  If President Trump refuses to do this, then it is up to our Representatives and Senators to speak up and defend America’s greatest treasure.  The public library.

Rest In Peace, Deane

It was more than likely a typical Saturday in the library.  Just like for any public library in America.  Patrons coming in though out the day to attend programs, check out a book or a movie, or even just to stay a few hours to study for exams.   Then out of the blue and a blink of an eye,  it's not a typical Saturday anymore.  Tragedies  can happen at any moment and anywhere. Even in public libraries.  After all, libraries are public buildings which are accessible to all.    On February 24, a mentally ill young man carrying a 10 inch hunting knife brutally stabbed to death Deane Kenny Stryker while she was studying in the Winchester Public Library. One patron tried to stop the man, but unfortunately became injured in the struggle.  Jeffery Yao, who was known to have been under doctor's care for mental illness, was apprehended for the murder.  This was a senseless act of violence.  Our condolences go first to the family of Deane Stryker.  Secondly to the community that the Winchester Public Library serves.  I'm sure this is a great loss, Deanne had a promising life ahead of her and it was shortened for reasons that will never be easy to understand or explain.

The story of Winchester Public Library seems to have fallen below the radar of many news service.  Mainly because  of the shooting in a Florida high School has taken over the news cycle.  It seems that every news outlet  is focused on Gun Control, shootings in high schools and keeping children safe.  Which are all good discussions to have but something just doesn't add up quire right.   Why has Deane's senseless murder  not been spread widely?  Could it be that this wasn't a crime involving a  gun? Or that  this wasn't  a story about police brutality or innocent high school children traumatized by a tragedy?    In other words, not flashy enough for the 11 o'clock news hour.  Nothing to see here folks.  Move along to something more interesting.  We as a society  are missing the big picture.

To put it bluntly the big picture is that these crimes will continue to happen over and over if we don't see the root cause of these violent outburst.  This incident should be of interest to everyone because of the fact that this was a crime points out that anything, gun, knife, rock,  and even bare hands can be used as weapons of destruction.   This  senseless murder  is a glaring reminder that all public places are vulnerable to fatal incidents. For the sake of Deane and her family, this story should be shared.  Why?  Deana is just like any other patron who walks into a library on a Saturday.  It was a place where she felt safe.  Quite frankly, if you ask any patrons who walk into their public library "do you feel safe here?",  an educated guess would be that almost 100% would say that they do.  A library is not the typical place where one would expect  a crime to be committed.  Having said that, Library director's in every part of the country should be more concerned now with "safety" than ever.

What to do in the wake of this horrible crime?   After the  high school shootings everyone has talked about arming teachers.  Some have suggested banning guns all together.  In libraries who would we turn to keep the patrons safe?  Should library staff be armed? Should library staff be trained in how to disarm a suspect?   Paid security officers?  It wouldn't be a surprise to hear most librarians say they didn't sign up for "law enforcement" when they studied library science.   While that is true, we have to be honest with ourselves. The reality is that  we are living in times that are quite different from a generation ago.  The solutions are not  easy but each library director, Board of Trustees and their community should investigate and candidly discuss what would work for them.

One tactic the has failed miserably is to claim  a public place  a Gun-Free zone.  It's a passive way to enforce safety that rarely stops a gunman from hurting others.  As we have seen in Stryker's case,  the gun-free zone would have made no difference.  The weapon of choice was a knife.  The common connection in  Parkland Florida and Winchester Public Library is the  both suspects were mentally ill.  Both had had series of documented "episodes" which called into question whether they were prone to violent behavior.  Perhaps the conversation on safety should begin with including  Mental Illness as a topic of discussion.

Public Safety in the library is too complex to solve in just one blog post.  Having said that,  it is way past time to have the honest  and open discussion of safety in the public library.  Leaders in every area of the community should be coming together to discuss how to keep the public safe in all public areas.  The library community in particular, owes this much to the patrons like Deanne who come to study, to find quiet place and to feel safe among our book shelves.

Rest In peace Deane.

In Search Of The Not so mushy, gushy, Valentine's Day

If it's corny, mushy than it's made for Saint Valentine's Day, right?    It's all about the cute little cupids,  the frilly hearts that say I luv you and every nauseating thing that comes to mind.   Today is not the day to quibble over little things such as defining love or was there really a Saint Valentine?  Nope, the is not the purpose of this day.   The whole idea of this holiday is to receive or send a note as  an expression of one's love for another.  Is it true love?  Is it the eternal love that never ends?  Sometimes, but it doesn't have to be.  Besides, those notes of undying love are tales for another time and other books.  

This holiday can be fun for the young not so serious or ready for lovey, mushy stuff. it can be a holiday that is the exact opposite of serious love.  What would that be?  The funny, punny silly kind of love.  The type that two friends share and giggle over the same jokes because they see eye to eye on everything.  Well, almost everything.    There will always be a time and place for the serious love books like Guess How Much I Love You that reassures little ones of the unconditional love of a parent.   Make room for the silly titles that will make everyone smile brighter.

The perfect, silly, and wonderful anti-Valentine's book   A Crankenstein Valentine by  Samantha Berger and illustrated by Dan Santat is highly recommended for children of all ages.    This book is cute, without being nauseating.  The tale is about Crankenstein who says YECH to everything from roses to the Valentine's Day Play, which no one asked if he wanted to be in it.  If he had his choice, the play would  go on but without HIM!   The only thing that could possibly make this day "okay" is finding  a friend who feels the exact same way that he does about this nauseating, PU holiday.  Just for added clarification,  add an EWWWWW to that and it would complete how utterly awful this day is to Crankenstein.  Fortunately for him  the next Valentine's day  is only 364 days away.

The author illustrated match up here is perfect.  It should be a sure hit with cranky little cupids who hate February 14th.  This tale leads perfectly to writing creative little anti-Valentine's that are not too mean but let's off a bit of steam.  Make heart shape valentines with construction paper color of one's choice, even black if that is so desired.  Then  pen a little poem like ...

Rose are Red,
this is true
But Violets are a hue
of purple not blue
This may  sound unkind,
me thinks you are color blind

Roses Are Red,
My socks are blue
they really are stinky
would you like to smell them too?

The possibilities are endless and the funny bone should be tickled at least once or twice during while creating the perfect "letting off steam" Valentine.   There are other titles that can make the anti-Valentine's day special such as  The Man who Stretched Valentine's Day by Watler Hoffman or This Is Not A Valentine by Carter Higgins.  Perhaps, going old school is the best place to start.  This may be the very first children's valentine book (at least it was my first as a kid)  Charles Schulz classic It's Valentine's Day Charlie Brown.   Although it has a happy ending,  everyone can relate to hoping for that one Valentine's day card from that special person.   It just may be that Crankenstein was looking for that perfect Valentine from the one who understood him best! Lucky for him, he got a cranky Valentine too!  Here's hoping that a cranky valentine finds a way into your holiday and brightens the day!

Passionate For the Stories

This is the first major sports week of 2018.   The combination of the Super Bowl and the  Winter Olympics must  seems like a heaven for sports fanatics.  Mixed in with a little basketball and NHL hockey, there will be something to watch every night for at least the next couple of weeks.    Sports utopia?  In a way it is but these sporting events are not just for the enthusiast.  Even those who don’t follow sports that closely will turn in from time to time.  Why?  As all librarians know, everyone loves a good story.  Sports has it all.   The action.  The drama.  The excitement.  The crushing defeats and rise to victory.   Who needs reality Television shows when sports was the original in bringing real life, unscripted  action to audiences around the world.   It’s all good.  

Some of the most powerful and inspirational stories of facing adversity and winning against all odds come out of the Olympics.   It seems that at every Olympic there has been  at least one story of the underdog seizing the gold medal.  This is the one place where  the “amateurs “ get to play and showcase their talents before a world wide audience.     What is an amateur really?  These athletes by every other definition would be considered professionals.  They train everyday.  They abide by strict daily regiments to improve their skills.    They abide by rules and regulations set forth by the Olympic organization.   They represent the country as being the best of the best in their chosen sport.   To be an Olympian is to join an elite club of athletes.  Only a few are chosen to compete in the Olympics but many have the dream to achieve that level only to have failed in making the grade. It  is an honor and a privilege that belongs to a few chosen.  So how is it that we still look upon them as “amateurs”?  Technically that is what they are suppose to be but in reality, their names should be changed to achievers.

The “stories”  of the athletes that captures the attention and it is a single common thread that  every athlete shares, whether they are amateurs or professionals.  What is that thread that binds them together and makes each of their story compelling?  Simply put, it is a courageous passion.  These athletes found something that drives them, that consumes their every moment and every step forward brings them closer to their dreams of gold or championship rings.     It is in essence their passion.  When they win the medals or rings what the audience sees is that one moment when everything comes together.  What the athletes and their coaches see were the many practices, trials and tribulations that brought them to where they are now.  Great stories of passion rarely take a day in the making.  It is more likely that it was days, weeks if not years before the athletes see the fruits of their labors.  That takes faith.  That takes perseverance.   The agony of defeat is not a pretty sight for anyone.  When athletes  lose, the blows are felt by the audiences as well.  Hopes and dreams are shattered but not for long.  Not for the true competitor.  For their passion won’t let them rest until they have that medal around their neck or the ring on their finger.   Athlete or not, most are familiar with  what it is like to work hard,  devote time and energy to one cause, come so far and walk away empty handed.  It is not a good feeling.  The inspiring stories rise for the losses as well as the wins.  There is something to be learned from both situations.

Books about sports capture the good, the bad and the so-so moments that make an athlete a legend.  A moment in time has been captured and if the story is told well, the reader can hear the roar of the crowd, the swish of the snow, or the puck clinking against the goal posts.  These stories bring the book nerd and jocks together as much as watching the game together does.  They teach the readers what it means to follow a passion no matter how impossible it may seem.  Sports stories, particularly ones that showcase an underdog, are great reminders that settling for average is not acceptable when there’s a possibilities that gold is just at the end of the rainbow.  

Libraries are the sports arena of the mind. Books are the exercise machines that help stretch the mind.  It may sound a bit dramatic or over the top  to say this, but it is absolutely true. One of the best place to begin searching and cultivating a passion is at the library.  The books and information are in abundance whether looking up sports, fiction or non-fiction.  Dreams are made of ideas that have turned into something tangible.   It’s true that not every person will pick up a book about ice skating and then become the best in the world just by reading the book.  It does help with the motivation to get started on working towards a dream.  On a side note,  there are athletes who use  novels as away to escape the everyday pressures of professional sports.  Don’t think this is true?  Ask LaBron James of the Miami Heat basketball team.  Sounds like he has something in common with book nerds.  Might be the only thing in common but it’s better than nothing.

Passions are very hard to explain.  Once something gets under the skin and into the heart it is hard to shake it off.  Everyone should be bitten at least once in their life by a passion that drives them.  For some it is soaring down an icy slope head first, face inches away from danger and the thrill of crossing the finish line in record time.   For others, it’s catching a ball and running to the end zone to make the touchdown of a lifetime.  Still for regular folks, who aren’t not amateur or professional athletes, their passion lies in what some might call everyday ordinary stuff.  Like working  daily advocating for libraries, large and small.  This is a vastly different  arena than what athletes perform in each day.  In this particular arena, the crowd doesn’t go wild unless it’s Terrific Thursday Story Hour.  There are no gold medals to collect or Super Bowl rings to win but there is the satisfaction knowing that on some days the gold medal moment is when a life has been touched by a book that was shared.

Enjoy this week in sports.  We can’t wait to hear what great stories com

Celebrating African American Authors Who Were Trailblazers

Libraries across the country are gearing up  to celebrate Black History Month.   There are so many resources out now about the contributions African Americans that it seems that a month is not enough time to showcase the best of the best.  Perhaps it would be easier to pay tribute to those whose works not only stood the test of time but inspired generations of writers, of all races.   Their passion  and talent encouraged others  to add their authentic voices in the African American literary experience. Without there contributions,  it is safe to say the American Literature would not be same or have reaped the benefits of a Toni Morrison or Maya Angelou.         African American literature is not limited to slave narratives or the Harlem Renaissance or even the Civil Rights experience.  The influences of the early trailblazers can be seen in today’s  Children and Young adult literature as well.   It would be a good idea to showcase these trailblazers at the library, especially if their tomes are on the shelf waiting to be checked out by the right reader.

The conversation on African American trailblazers could and should begin with the slave narratives.    It is here that readers can begin to get a glimpse of the slave experience in America.   Many of the slaves who fled North, learned to read and write,  which gave testimony to horrors of slavery and aided the cause of the Abolitionist Movement.   Phillis Wheatley, a slave in Boston was the first African American to have her book published.  Ms. Wheatley may also be  the first African American who had to prove in court, that she had actually had written the book. She not only stated her case, proving once and for all that she authored the book, she also had high profile admirers such as President George Washington.  How  could a young black women be articulate and write so eloquently?  Her owners had encouraged her to learn to read and write.  From there, her talents as a poet was discovered.      She wrote this poem, “His Excellency George Washington”, as a freed slave.  Although she never became as well known as Federick Douglas for her antislavery literature, there are published letters to the newspapers penned by her, making the case for freed Slaves.

The Harlem Renaissance changed the landscape of African American literature forever.  It was the first time that the writings and art appealed to a wider audience than African Americans.   The entire United States began to take notice of the art and music coming out of Harlem, New York.   Artists lured the public into swaying to a new rhythm  called Jazz,  while literature and plays that threw away the old stereotypes  of African American characters and replaced them with complex characters who expressed the human experience in profound ways.   Out of the Harlem Renaissance came men and women who dared to change the narrative of the poor black folks to richness of a vibrant culture found in the African American community.   Langston Hughes, poet and playwright  was at the center of Harlem Renaissance.  Hughes talent allowed him to become the first black American to earn his living solely from his writing and public lectures. His works appealed to the average black person.   He put their struggles, their stories in a clear perspective that they accept and appreciated his candor about the struggles of their community.   Arguably his most famous contribution to poetry is “Harlem”  or as some called it the Dream deferred poem.   This poems powerfully articulates the frustration and the hope that African American community know all too well.  It’s the cross between hoping for a better world but realizing the road to get there is a long one.  Sometimes, the dreams are “deferred” until the time is right for them to become a reality.   Quite literally Hughes works spoke about and to the common folks.

it is without a doubt the the success of Lorraine Hansberry as a playwright and writer has direct ties and is influenced by the Harlem Renaissance. She is the first African American playwright to have her work featured on Broadway.  A Raisin In the Sun, tells the tale of  an African American struggle with segregation in Chicago.  Hansberry’s play was awarded the New York Drama Critics Circle Award in 1959, which made her the first African American writer to win this prestigious award.

In 1963 Children’s literature saw a dramatic and much needed change. Snowy Day, written and illustrated by Ezra Jack Keats  won the much coveted   Caldecott Medal that year.    It’s a perfect story of a child reveling in joys of a perfect snowy day.  The author broke the color barrier in Children’s literature with the introduction of Peter, the main character, who is an African American child.  The universal theme that all children, regardless of cultural background, love the freedom and the promise of a snowy day.  Can we go sledding?  Making footprints in the snow?  Snowball fights?  The possibilities are endless. The story is timeless.    Keats later wrote other books for children that demonstrated to readers the common thread of life we all share, regardless of our cultural backgrounds.

These are just a few of the trailblazers that could be recognized for Black History Month in the way of a bulletin board display or even handouts for patrons.   The list of contributions from writers, artists, playwrights is extensive but the handful mentioned here just the tip of the iceberg.  Plenty of information can be found on all of these artists and authors.   Some libraries have special collections devoted to African American Literature. Most metropolitan public libraries system such as Detroit Public Library will have an extensive collection which is worth going to check out to discover or rediscover the works mentioned here and perhaps, discover a few new gems.   Let the celebrations begin!  As always,  celebrating with this librarian always begins with a good book.

Why Children's Books with Moral Themes Are Good

     While it's true that reading is effective in developing imagination in children, it is equally true that the stories that they read have an impact on how they view the world around them.  It is often heard at the children's story time planning that finding books that are just pure entertainment is better than those "preachy" books.  Something simple, let's say like The Hungary Caterpillar or Don't Let Pigeon Drive the Bus is often seen as "free" of a message.  Let's be honest all books have a message or tale to share.  It may not be as if they are hitting readers over the head with a message as "do this or else"  but the message is still there.   Hungary caterpillar's message?  That's easy because it is about spring and transformation.  It's about growing and becoming the beautiful unique person that you are.   Nice story for tots who are going through growth and change themselves.   Don't Let Pigeon Drive the Bus has a message as well.  Sometimes no means NO.  All the whining, manipulating, bribing and begging won't get you what you want.  Plus, as one little tyke asked after a story time,  "Why would a pigeon want to drive the bus when he can fly?"   (Good question,  I have since pondered the answer to that question.  I  haven't yet  come up with a good response.)

     Children books about right and wrong, good and evil are essential to a child's development.   As librarians we must not ignore the fact that some of the best stories have strong moral message which are universal as well.   For example,  The Giving Tree.  Classic tale of a little boy who continues to take and take and takes from his favorite Tree.  The Tree loves the little boy and is willing to give all that it has until it has nothing left to give.  When sharing this story with children,  it becomes clear who is the hero of the story.  It's not the selfish little boy, it's the tree.  The moral of this story, true love is giving everything possible to someone else with no expectations of receiving anything in return.  The secondary message, don't be greedy and take for granted the love that someone gives to you because one day they will be gone.   The story is told in a simple and straightforward manner.  How could one not love the book or its message?   To ask the question of it's appropriate for a story time, the answer is yes.

    The Lion King, is another example that is perfect to demonstrate why moral based stories for children should be considered.  The Lion King is filled with right and wrong, good and evil messages.  For example,  everyone knows that Mufasa is a good king.  He is everything a king should be.  Strong. Brave. Just. Kind.  Scar's image is quite different.  He is everything a king should not be.  He rules  through fear, intimidation and manipulation.   Children see the difference and instinctively root for Mufasa to prevail as King (later root for Simba to take his father's place).   When Mufasa does not, and Scar takes his place as King, it is the point in the story where the children (and adults too) are a little sad that good did not overcome evil.   They hope that Simba shares the character traits of his good father and will restore order to the pride by removing Scar as King.  Again this is distinctly drawing the line between good and evil.  Is this preachy?  Absolutely not.  Why?  The story is told so well that it does not come off as "preachy".  Children became entranced  the magical world of the jungle  and without knowing it they are beginning to discern the difference between what is right and wrong.  

     Books with moral message are  not a bad thing for children.  It is amazing to think that there are some who are objecting to children be exposed to these stories simply on the basis that defining morals is not appropriate in a public setting such as the library or school.  Who are we to tell children whaat is right and wrong?  Or my morals may not be the same as another.   This is pure nonsense.   Moral stories teaches children to inspire to be the best person they can be.  To be honest,  care for others,  and always choose right over wrong.  How can that be bad?  Before the lame excuse comes up that right and wrong can be subjective, I beg to differ.   It's not subjective in as much as it is sometimes complex.  As children get older they will encounter stories that are not as clear cut as children's tale.  For example if they begin reading the Super Hero genre they will find super heroes constantly struggle with the conflicts of doing what is right and what is wrong.  Killing someone is not a good thing to do.  However, in some cases it is the only way to stop evil.   For a child who is four or five, they may not understand this concept but an older child is ready for the leap into discerning what to do when faced with the situation of choosing between letting evil actions continue or whether to stop it at any cost.

     There are so many books out there for children of all ages that tackle the moral themes in  ways that are not preachy and yet they spark the hope in the reader that the world can be a better place if people would just be like the heroes or heroines in the books.   Sharing these stories are  reminders to always be trying to be a better person.    Blogs are great ways to communicate and share there stories but in all honesty to list the books here would take up quite a bit of space.   If you are interested in a Reader's Advisory List of Books with contemporary and traditional moral themed stories (K-12)  make a request at thelibrarianatlarge@gmail.com   In the meantime,  happy reading!





 



 

   

It's Good To Be Back!

      In the last blog, I should have borrowed the line from The Terminator, "I"ll be back."   However, at the time I knew I would be back but didn't realize that it would be a little over a year for me to get back.  My humble apology it was not due to laziness.  Perhaps it would be appropriate  to say that Mrs. Nowc, Librarian At Large, went on a sabbatical.  During that time she learned much about libraries.   How did this happen?  For starters,  the description of "at large"  fits only fifty percent of my professional time now.   The  other 50% of my professional time is at a small urban public library as the library director.   My first year there and my year of sabbatical from the blog has been enlightening, educational and entertaining.  I am so excited to be back blogging and ready to share ideas, books, and anything related to libraries.  Most importantly,  I will not miss the opportunity to advocate for libraries.  

     My first post since the sabbatical will officially begin Sunday,  January 21, 2018.  With the back from sabbatical eagerness,  a new post will appear every Sunday after that.   If you find the information fascinating, riveting and find yourself needing to share the blog with friends and relatives,  by all means share and share as often as you would like.   Of note,  there are two emails in which you can reach Mrs Nowc Librarian at Large  please send an email to give suggestions on topics or books you would like for the blog to review.  Also feel free to say Kudos.  The addresses are thelibrsrianatlarge@gmail.com or lvnlibrarian@gmail.com  Please, no emails from Publishers Clearing House claiming I may have already won.  I know I'm a winner.  I happen to work in the best profession on the planet!  

See everyone on January 21st!