Planning Ahead
National Arts and Humanities Month
In 2009, President Obama named October National Arts and Humanities Month. Across the country, people gather together throughout the month to celebrate the arts and discuss the future of American culture. In his official proclamation, the president said, “It is the painter, the author, the musician, and the historian whose work inspires us to action, drives us to contemplation, stirs joy in our hearts, and calls upon us to consider our world anew.” ► read more...
Also in October: Don’t forget Teen Read Week
and National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
From the Blog
Has Your Library Stepped Up to the Plate?
The Campaign for America’s Libraries is looking for stories showing how libraries are promoting the fifth season of Step Up to the Plate @ your library. From now until August 17, libraries are encouraged to submit stories, photos and videos of Step Up to the Plate @ your library activities. ► read more...
Too Much of a Good Thing
The good news? Your library programs are so successful that people have to line up for them. The bad news? Your library programs are so successful that people have to line up for them. Offering programs that are extremely well-attended by patrons seems like the ideal, but there’s a downside to success as well. ► read more...
Feature
Collaboration @ Your School Library
As a middle school librarian, I am responsible for many tasks: managing a small library, teaching information skills, promoting reading, and collaborating on instruction with classroom teachers. One duty that does not seem required, though, is providing stimulating programming for students. Sure, my school appreciates when I moderate book clubs or host an author visit, but if I did not offer these events, I’m not sure anyone would complain. In speaking with my peers, I found there is often little programming expectations for school librarians. However, the climate for school libraries is rapidly changing as, across the country, school libraries are seeing their budgets slashed or their doors being closed permanently.
Though I work in an independent school that embraces its library, I did not think it would hurt to make a stronger case for the value of our library; therefore, I decided to host a wide variety of events throughout the year. From documentary film day to organic garden building, I wanted to go beyond the author visit and offer my students thought-provoking and interesting activities. Along the way I learned a few important lessons.
► read more...Poll
Quote of the Week
Let us read and let us dance—two amusements that will never do any harm to the world.
—Voltaire