A sign of greatness for any person, business or institution is it's longevity. In the case of a person, it is their legacy. Libraries have been among the institutions that pass the test of longevity. It is a sad moment when that important fact seems to elude those who continue to argue that libraries should be a "relic" of the past. Librarians must ask themselves one question. If the local library were "great", would any community challenge the importance the library? Perhaps they would, but making their case would be made harder.
It may sound corny, but the first "mark" of a great library is a strong clear vision for the future. Library directors who fail to look beyond five to ten years in serving their communities are doomed to either ho-hum libraries or a closed libraries. The times in which we live is so incredibly rich with opportunities to expand and grow. Libraries are fortunate enough to be on the front line of using technology to share and distribute information. This is an exciting and the library with a strong vision to creatively adapt to the emerging technologies is one that will "survive".
Libraries that shape their programs around their communities' need for life-long education are in a better position to gather support then those that cite lack of time, tools and money as an obstacle. Excuses like these feed the fuel that libraries can not adapt. If they can not adapt, then its usefulness is overshadowed by the demand for the community to grow. What community wants to be left behind in the digital age? Unique programs which feature new technology is a good place to start connecting patrons with technology. However, there is still a place for traditional programs, but adding an updated version. One example would be storytimes, must be examined to see if there are other viable options to offer these programs. Video on web page? Using Skype? In other words, taking a traditional program and making it new again. Which is not as hard as it seems.
Leaders who have vision and think outside the box, tend to be proactive in the community. This means they don't wait for the Mayor or other city officials to come to them. On the local level, they go to city hall meetings, luncheons and parades. On the state level, they go to Legislative Days and meet with Representatives. This accomplishes two goals that every library should be able to achieve. One, the library, (or library director) defines who they are, what they do and what makes them great. Secondly, it keeps the library in the "spotlight" of the community.
What makes a great library? Not technology and gadgets by itself. Not even the building or the people who use it everyday. What makes a great library? Leadership, vision, and action. There is just one more idea to explore, bringing all these elements together and making it work for libraries. That a discussion for another time.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Monday, March 12, 2012
What Makes A Great Library, Part I
In a recent article about Books on Demand coming to the Brooklyn Public Library, the CEO and President of BPL, Linda Johnson, made a startling statement. "What makes a great library is still up in the air." The statement seems innocent enough, yet there is an underlining theme that has rippled through the library world for far too long. Simply, librarians still can not define the institution and the work they do in a concise manner that rings of value and necessity. The idea that a CEO of a large public library can not define what makes a great library is, to say the least, disheartening. The translation of that is answer is "I have no clue." Sorry, but that is unacceptable coming from a CEO/President of any industry, let alone a library. Librarians and library advocates should demand in their leaders that they not only know the "greatness" of our libraries but are proactive in keeping libraries thriving though the next century and beyond. The time really is now to make the case for libraries. If this is not done, then libraries deserve to become like a balloon with an air leak. It will drift with no direction into obscurity.
Historically, libraries have always known their function in society. It was a place where the community shared books, ideas and information. When the concept of a public library was first conceived there were no doubts as to what was the vision for the institution. However, time has a way of eroding away memories and ideas. Libraries are not "safe" from this cruel fact. The Internet was the first "tool" to plant the seed of doubt for library users and librarians. Doubt that there was a need for a public library. Doubt that anyone would want to visit a library on a Saturday afternoon just for leisure. Doubt that the institution would survive the technological wave. With all these doubts, librarians went on the defensive and have been waiting for the ball to be punted back to them ever since. In a nutshell, libraries have lost their identity, their soul. The question remains, what makes a great library?
Time is also known to be a healer of wounds. Admittedly, many may say that libraries are on life support at the moment, but it doesn't have to be that way in the future. Quite frankly, its all about having vision, courage and fortitude to withstand the changes and moving forward. In any industry success is based upon having a vision, motivating others to follow that vision and achieving goals one step at a time. Librarians have been trained to think more like "public" employees who have one set way of accomplishing a goal. Step one fill out tons of paperwork for one computer. Step two cut through tons of red tape. Three gather support in city hall and from patrons. Four start the process over again because the budget was cut two weeks before step one's paperwork got to the right desk. Sound familiar? Librarians either have to break from local government control or beat the system that local government creates. Perhaps Its a combination of break and beat that will save libraries. Yet, the question remains what makes a great library?
The qualities of a good library are easily detectable. Good material circulation numbers, programs that are pretty well attended and predictable, and finally a staff that is qualified to do their duties. That is the minimum of what any community would demand of their library. A great library on the other hand, has the qualities of the good library plus the "extras" that can't be measured. It is what will give some libraries the edge in surviving and leading the way into the future. What is this extra that every library needs to be great? That question can be explored in the next entry.
Historically, libraries have always known their function in society. It was a place where the community shared books, ideas and information. When the concept of a public library was first conceived there were no doubts as to what was the vision for the institution. However, time has a way of eroding away memories and ideas. Libraries are not "safe" from this cruel fact. The Internet was the first "tool" to plant the seed of doubt for library users and librarians. Doubt that there was a need for a public library. Doubt that anyone would want to visit a library on a Saturday afternoon just for leisure. Doubt that the institution would survive the technological wave. With all these doubts, librarians went on the defensive and have been waiting for the ball to be punted back to them ever since. In a nutshell, libraries have lost their identity, their soul. The question remains, what makes a great library?
Time is also known to be a healer of wounds. Admittedly, many may say that libraries are on life support at the moment, but it doesn't have to be that way in the future. Quite frankly, its all about having vision, courage and fortitude to withstand the changes and moving forward. In any industry success is based upon having a vision, motivating others to follow that vision and achieving goals one step at a time. Librarians have been trained to think more like "public" employees who have one set way of accomplishing a goal. Step one fill out tons of paperwork for one computer. Step two cut through tons of red tape. Three gather support in city hall and from patrons. Four start the process over again because the budget was cut two weeks before step one's paperwork got to the right desk. Sound familiar? Librarians either have to break from local government control or beat the system that local government creates. Perhaps Its a combination of break and beat that will save libraries. Yet, the question remains what makes a great library?
The qualities of a good library are easily detectable. Good material circulation numbers, programs that are pretty well attended and predictable, and finally a staff that is qualified to do their duties. That is the minimum of what any community would demand of their library. A great library on the other hand, has the qualities of the good library plus the "extras" that can't be measured. It is what will give some libraries the edge in surviving and leading the way into the future. What is this extra that every library needs to be great? That question can be explored in the next entry.
Monday, March 5, 2012
Celebrating Women's History Month With Classic Women Authors
Lining the bookshelves of public libraries are several wonderful titles written by women. March is dedicated to celebrating the accomplishment of great women in history which includes a long list of heroines far and near. In literature there are many writers who have inspired their generation and generation of readers that followed. Their words are timeless and their characters are as real as our best friends. Many of the classic writers wrote during an era when women were not considered equal to men. Yet, in their books, the women writers wrote about strong, independent women. Contrast this to today's authors where some create women who are anything but strong or independent. This seems odd since women today enjoy more freedoms then their counterparts two hundred years ago. See if there is any agreement to the three authors listed below.
Jane Austen is the best example of a woman author who challenges cultural wisdom and introduces wonderful female characters who are bright, witty and memorable. Elizabeth Bennet of Pride and Prejudice comes to the forefront of the long list of character. Austen is very careful to let everyone in on the cultural joke and in the end wins not only Mr. Darby's heart but the reader's as well.
Agatha Christie remarkable work changed the formula for rich crime stories that lure readers into reading one more page to find out "who done it". The unforgettable Miss Marple received attention not only for her ability to solve crimes but also from the stand point that she is not the typical detective. Old maids celebrated everywhere that there was finally a character that broke the mold for old maids. For once they were not meek, weepy and alone. Instead, Miss Marple demonstrates characteristics of an endearing, strong and inquisitive person. Who needs a husband when their is crimes to solve in the tiny village of St. Mary Meade.
One of he first example of Science fiction comes from a woman who dreamed about a scientist who created a monster. Mary Shelley's work Frankenstein opens readers to the world of science and the search for the meaning of life. Victor, the scientist who is the sorrowful creator, reveals to his friend Henry how he was able to recreate life and the consequences of his action. Shelley's tome delves into Victor's remorse for greedily looking for the power of life and at he same time explores the "humanity" of the monster who was crafted in a lab only to be shunned by his creator. This is unique point of view taps into the reader's sense of wonder for science and life.
Obviously these are only a few great women authors who changed literature for the better. Throughout the month of March there will be plenty of opportunities to explore others who not only introduced a new genre as Shelley did but also how they have added to the creative landscape of children and Young Adult literature. As the old saying goes, you ain't seen nothing yet.
Jane Austen is the best example of a woman author who challenges cultural wisdom and introduces wonderful female characters who are bright, witty and memorable. Elizabeth Bennet of Pride and Prejudice comes to the forefront of the long list of character. Austen is very careful to let everyone in on the cultural joke and in the end wins not only Mr. Darby's heart but the reader's as well.
Agatha Christie remarkable work changed the formula for rich crime stories that lure readers into reading one more page to find out "who done it". The unforgettable Miss Marple received attention not only for her ability to solve crimes but also from the stand point that she is not the typical detective. Old maids celebrated everywhere that there was finally a character that broke the mold for old maids. For once they were not meek, weepy and alone. Instead, Miss Marple demonstrates characteristics of an endearing, strong and inquisitive person. Who needs a husband when their is crimes to solve in the tiny village of St. Mary Meade.
One of he first example of Science fiction comes from a woman who dreamed about a scientist who created a monster. Mary Shelley's work Frankenstein opens readers to the world of science and the search for the meaning of life. Victor, the scientist who is the sorrowful creator, reveals to his friend Henry how he was able to recreate life and the consequences of his action. Shelley's tome delves into Victor's remorse for greedily looking for the power of life and at he same time explores the "humanity" of the monster who was crafted in a lab only to be shunned by his creator. This is unique point of view taps into the reader's sense of wonder for science and life.
Obviously these are only a few great women authors who changed literature for the better. Throughout the month of March there will be plenty of opportunities to explore others who not only introduced a new genre as Shelley did but also how they have added to the creative landscape of children and Young Adult literature. As the old saying goes, you ain't seen nothing yet.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Library Programs Ideas to Invite Patrons into Dr. Seuss' World.
In the wonderful and whimsical world of Dr. Seuss there are many characters to love. From the mischievous Cat in the Hat to the grouchy Grinch to lovable Thidwick. Without a doubt, Dr. Seuss' creative genius has enriched children's literature for the better. His legacy in kiddie lit is making reading fun, easy and rhythmical for young readers. The fact that his tales have stood the test of time, seventy-five years to be exact, is an amazing accomplishment. Not many authors, especially in children's literature reach that level of durability. It would not be a stretch to say that there will never be another children's author/illustrator who can capture the magic of Dr. Seuss.
It's hard to image what children's literature would be like without Seuss' books gracing the bookshelves. The idea of putting together a story that contained two hundred twenty-five new reader vocabulary was pure inspiration. The Cat in the Hat introduced himself to young readers and has stolen their hearts forever. For struggling young readers this is a gift that lasts a lifetime. Rhyming words stories provide the opportunity to learn simple words without becoming boring or tedious. It is quite the opposite. That is to say, it's unique and engages the reader with every page.
Dr. Seuss' birthday (March 2) is the perfect time to plan a Seussical program at the library. This isn't just kid stuff. Nope. Programs can range from Cat In the Hat Look alike contests. Invite patrons of all ages to take pictures of their pets dressed as the CAT in the Hat. This is an opportunity for all pet lovers to show off their four-legged family member's artistic side. The library can also sponsor a cooking class for the entire family which features green eggs and ham. Not Surprisingly, children will not only want to learn the recipes but will also want to try the tasty treats. Not forgetting that there are teens who still love and have fond memories, activities that involve memorizing, puzzles and mayhem will certainly get them into the action. One idea is to challenge teens to put together a floor puzzle of a Dr. Seuss title as fast as they can. The pieces are twenty-four in all and very big. Putting it together should be easy, right? Teens are always looking for the catch, as well as they should with sneaky librarians. Hide the pieces are the library and have teens find them. Once they have all twenty four pieces they can put the puzzle together. It's a fun time for all and is a homage to the mischievous Cat.
In all honesty, a library that does not recognize this wonderful author's work in some fashion, is missing out on an wonderful opportunity to lure patrons into the library. The creativity of Dr. Seuss should provide a gold mine of ideas when it comes to celebrating books, reading and of course, libraries.
It's hard to image what children's literature would be like without Seuss' books gracing the bookshelves. The idea of putting together a story that contained two hundred twenty-five new reader vocabulary was pure inspiration. The Cat in the Hat introduced himself to young readers and has stolen their hearts forever. For struggling young readers this is a gift that lasts a lifetime. Rhyming words stories provide the opportunity to learn simple words without becoming boring or tedious. It is quite the opposite. That is to say, it's unique and engages the reader with every page.
Dr. Seuss' birthday (March 2) is the perfect time to plan a Seussical program at the library. This isn't just kid stuff. Nope. Programs can range from Cat In the Hat Look alike contests. Invite patrons of all ages to take pictures of their pets dressed as the CAT in the Hat. This is an opportunity for all pet lovers to show off their four-legged family member's artistic side. The library can also sponsor a cooking class for the entire family which features green eggs and ham. Not Surprisingly, children will not only want to learn the recipes but will also want to try the tasty treats. Not forgetting that there are teens who still love and have fond memories, activities that involve memorizing, puzzles and mayhem will certainly get them into the action. One idea is to challenge teens to put together a floor puzzle of a Dr. Seuss title as fast as they can. The pieces are twenty-four in all and very big. Putting it together should be easy, right? Teens are always looking for the catch, as well as they should with sneaky librarians. Hide the pieces are the library and have teens find them. Once they have all twenty four pieces they can put the puzzle together. It's a fun time for all and is a homage to the mischievous Cat.
In all honesty, a library that does not recognize this wonderful author's work in some fashion, is missing out on an wonderful opportunity to lure patrons into the library. The creativity of Dr. Seuss should provide a gold mine of ideas when it comes to celebrating books, reading and of course, libraries.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Romances That Teens Should Never Read
Before all the wonderful YA librarians in the States start writing comments on how this blog entry may be infringing on teen's right to read, rest assured that issue has been considered. The opinion remains in tact that certain fictional romances just do not benefit teens in any way shape or form. In fact, it harms the fragile teen psyche. Teens have many things to worry about in life, such as how they look, succeeding in school, and being liked by the boy or girl that they have a secret crush on. The list is endless. Where do some teens go to look for ideas on how to behave in a relationship? In the books, movies and songs that are popular at the moment. Valentine's Day has passed, which means that this is the perfect opportunity to express some love-hate for characters that just give out the wrong vibes about love.
Bella and Edward of Twilight is one prime example of a girl losing her self-esteem to an older guy. All right, Edward is the extreme in older men being several hundred years old. However, the fact that Bella just adores Edward and can not believe that a guy as hunky as Edward could ever find her attractive is just pathetic. What is Ms. Meyers trying to teach young girls? That having a low self esteem is good and the only way to make it better is to fall for a guy who makes you realize all your faults. Let's face it Twilight is a Harlequin novel gone batty for Vampires.
Romeo and Juliet of William Shakespeare and other YA novels that deem it fit to retell the story for a young generation. Two star crossed lovers, with Romeo being the one who just loves to be in love, tragically end their lives because they can not live without each other. Let's delve into the young lovers' problem. First, their families hate each other. Second, they are crazy for each other. Of course, their parents would hate the idea of the two of the together, so this makes it even more romantic. Third, at a very young age, they know that they are so in love that they want to spend the rest of their lives together. Not a good thing to do as a teenager, as adults all know, events have a way of changing a situation. Fourth, suicides never has a good ending. What should teens learn from this tragic love story? Never think in terms of forever when your are a teenager. A new guy or gal will come along and turn your head around sound enough.
Last, and certainly not least, Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist is enough to drive any teen out of their mind with lust. Yes, lust. Cohn and Levithan try to be hip with latest trend in music and turn into a chance meeting between two teens who have nothing in common. Oh, wait, that's right they like the same music, spend the whole night together and end up on a charming first date together. Blah! Its true that fiction does not have to be completely real but if authors are going to use modern technology and times to base their stories,' the least they can do is acknowledge the real world. Fantasy loves plus unbelievable first encounter equals a book that leads teens to believe that this could happen to them. Someday. Somewhere. Let's be honest with the teens and add, on a planet far far away. At least it would be more accurate.
This list is by no means complete. There are so many tasteless, trashy, and terribly written YA romance novels that it is at times, overwhelming. This list may have been a bit harsh. However, there is one good thing about awful romance novels. They help readers appreciate he better written stories even more.
Bella and Edward of Twilight is one prime example of a girl losing her self-esteem to an older guy. All right, Edward is the extreme in older men being several hundred years old. However, the fact that Bella just adores Edward and can not believe that a guy as hunky as Edward could ever find her attractive is just pathetic. What is Ms. Meyers trying to teach young girls? That having a low self esteem is good and the only way to make it better is to fall for a guy who makes you realize all your faults. Let's face it Twilight is a Harlequin novel gone batty for Vampires.
Romeo and Juliet of William Shakespeare and other YA novels that deem it fit to retell the story for a young generation. Two star crossed lovers, with Romeo being the one who just loves to be in love, tragically end their lives because they can not live without each other. Let's delve into the young lovers' problem. First, their families hate each other. Second, they are crazy for each other. Of course, their parents would hate the idea of the two of the together, so this makes it even more romantic. Third, at a very young age, they know that they are so in love that they want to spend the rest of their lives together. Not a good thing to do as a teenager, as adults all know, events have a way of changing a situation. Fourth, suicides never has a good ending. What should teens learn from this tragic love story? Never think in terms of forever when your are a teenager. A new guy or gal will come along and turn your head around sound enough.
Last, and certainly not least, Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist is enough to drive any teen out of their mind with lust. Yes, lust. Cohn and Levithan try to be hip with latest trend in music and turn into a chance meeting between two teens who have nothing in common. Oh, wait, that's right they like the same music, spend the whole night together and end up on a charming first date together. Blah! Its true that fiction does not have to be completely real but if authors are going to use modern technology and times to base their stories,' the least they can do is acknowledge the real world. Fantasy loves plus unbelievable first encounter equals a book that leads teens to believe that this could happen to them. Someday. Somewhere. Let's be honest with the teens and add, on a planet far far away. At least it would be more accurate.
This list is by no means complete. There are so many tasteless, trashy, and terribly written YA romance novels that it is at times, overwhelming. This list may have been a bit harsh. However, there is one good thing about awful romance novels. They help readers appreciate he better written stories even more.
Monday, February 27, 2012
it's A Dog Book: PIcture Book Favorites!
In libraries across the country there are programs for reluctant readers known as Paws for Reading. This program opens up the world for many readers which gives humans another reason to call dogs man's best friend. What is the inspiration for this program? It must be due to the fact that dogs, children and books are a natural fit. It's actually proven historically that dogs have helped children of all ages enjoy a good book. Okay, so the dogs are fictional but they are young reader's best friend just the same.
Everyone can remember their favorite canine character from childhood tales. Each of these pups have characteristics that make them memorable. First, they work their way into a child's imagination and grab hold of their hearts. Either it's by their clumsiness or inquisitive nature. It could be a combination of both. Second, their stories are relatable, such as getting lost or going to school. Every child has or will have experienced these events in their lives. Third, they keep the readers coming back for more. This is true from the parents perspective. Often parents will read books to their children that their parents read to them as a child. The love for the character can go on for generations.
Each of these dogs are wonderful and unique in their own way. They come in all different sizes, colors and breads. Some are small like Flack's Angus who gets lost. Some have political ambition and can spin a interesting tale like Teague's Larue. Other small dogs, like Shannon's Fergus who stays one step ahead of trouble. Day's Carl provides readers with a dog's view of a day at the beach. While others have a big heart and adopt a penguin like Kellogg's Pinkerton. Of course, it would be a shame not to mention the largest dog, Bridwell's Clifford. Each of these dogs have romped through the pages of picture books creating hours of enjoyment for young readers. Which just proves the original point, dogs, books and children really are good together.
Finding the right dog and the right book is not a simple task. Basically because it is hard to pick a favorite. Why not help young reader's find a favorite by featuring one of these characters in a story time, book display or on the library's website. Children's librarian may want to start with their own personal favorite. Books are always better when they are shared.
Everyone can remember their favorite canine character from childhood tales. Each of these pups have characteristics that make them memorable. First, they work their way into a child's imagination and grab hold of their hearts. Either it's by their clumsiness or inquisitive nature. It could be a combination of both. Second, their stories are relatable, such as getting lost or going to school. Every child has or will have experienced these events in their lives. Third, they keep the readers coming back for more. This is true from the parents perspective. Often parents will read books to their children that their parents read to them as a child. The love for the character can go on for generations.
Each of these dogs are wonderful and unique in their own way. They come in all different sizes, colors and breads. Some are small like Flack's Angus who gets lost. Some have political ambition and can spin a interesting tale like Teague's Larue. Other small dogs, like Shannon's Fergus who stays one step ahead of trouble. Day's Carl provides readers with a dog's view of a day at the beach. While others have a big heart and adopt a penguin like Kellogg's Pinkerton. Of course, it would be a shame not to mention the largest dog, Bridwell's Clifford. Each of these dogs have romped through the pages of picture books creating hours of enjoyment for young readers. Which just proves the original point, dogs, books and children really are good together.
Finding the right dog and the right book is not a simple task. Basically because it is hard to pick a favorite. Why not help young reader's find a favorite by featuring one of these characters in a story time, book display or on the library's website. Children's librarian may want to start with their own personal favorite. Books are always better when they are shared.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Presidential Activiites: All Leaders are Readers
It's a pretty fair statement to point out that great leaders are readers. This is especially true of many of our nation's Presidents. Jefferson, Lincoln and George W. Bush are just a few examples of avid readers. Keeping this in mind, it became puzzling that there are no storytime that reminded children that great leaders were first avid readers. To fix this problem, it became a goal to find a way to make this topic work in a storytime program. Fitting in a biographical storytime is easier than one would think. There are delightful picture books that feature our great presidents such as Washington and Lincoln. Which makes for a wonderful half-hour program complete with crafts which includes making a stovepipe hat and beard. What child wouldn't love walking out of a program with a costume like that? Need a little music to go with the craft and stories, how about a Presidential parade with little feet marching to the tune of "Hail to the Chief". Still not convinced? Take a look at the following picture books listed below to discover the inspiration of entertaining while educating young minds.
It's very hard to do biographies in picture books. Lucky for children librarians and young readers everywhere there are talented authors who have taken up the task of remembering great men and women in history. Specifically, the books here focus on our two greatest Presidents. Margaret McNamara's George's Birthday: A Mostly True Tale is a fresh, interesting and full of fun facts about our first president. The story itself is a fiction, however McNamara cleverly fits in true facts about George through out the book that can lead to interesting discussion with children. The illustrations add a nice touch with a pint size George wearing a powdered wig.
After reading about George, move on to another picture book written by Maria Kalman titled Looking At Lincoln,. Inspired by the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., Kalman retells the story of Lincoln's life, presidency and death with sensitivity and clarity that aids children of all ages understand the complicated issues that this president faced.
A books series titled, "Who Was..." is a wonderful introduction to biographies for young readers in the grades two and up. These books are filled with interesting facts, timelines and bibliographic references for young readers to look up additional information. Who Was Abraham Lincoln? by Janet B. Pascal and Who Was George Washington? by Roberta Edwards are excellent choices for quick reading and book discussions for the little "older" reader then the storytime crowd.
With a little imagination, and how can one not be inspired by the two greatest Presidents our nation has produced, a unique storytime that children and parents won't soon forget is ready to go. Who knows this storytime may be the building block for a budding future "President".
Would you like to see more book titles? It's easy to obtain by emailing lvnlibrarian@yahoo.com and requesting an annotated President's day bibliography.
It's very hard to do biographies in picture books. Lucky for children librarians and young readers everywhere there are talented authors who have taken up the task of remembering great men and women in history. Specifically, the books here focus on our two greatest Presidents. Margaret McNamara's George's Birthday: A Mostly True Tale is a fresh, interesting and full of fun facts about our first president. The story itself is a fiction, however McNamara cleverly fits in true facts about George through out the book that can lead to interesting discussion with children. The illustrations add a nice touch with a pint size George wearing a powdered wig.
After reading about George, move on to another picture book written by Maria Kalman titled Looking At Lincoln,. Inspired by the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., Kalman retells the story of Lincoln's life, presidency and death with sensitivity and clarity that aids children of all ages understand the complicated issues that this president faced.
A books series titled, "Who Was..." is a wonderful introduction to biographies for young readers in the grades two and up. These books are filled with interesting facts, timelines and bibliographic references for young readers to look up additional information. Who Was Abraham Lincoln? by Janet B. Pascal and Who Was George Washington? by Roberta Edwards are excellent choices for quick reading and book discussions for the little "older" reader then the storytime crowd.
With a little imagination, and how can one not be inspired by the two greatest Presidents our nation has produced, a unique storytime that children and parents won't soon forget is ready to go. Who knows this storytime may be the building block for a budding future "President".
Would you like to see more book titles? It's easy to obtain by emailing lvnlibrarian@yahoo.com and requesting an annotated President's day bibliography.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)