Are Libraries Still Needed?

I interviewed a librarian about her job and the different trends in children’s literature. We will see in the interview what is needed to foster a joy and interest for literature in the children in the classroom and at home.

Q: What is the biggest challenge you face with the children that come into the library?

A: In the public library our biggest challenge with the children that come in are getting them to fully experience all that we do have to offer. Many of our students come to the library daily, but it’s to use our computers to play games, which is fine. However, many of these students are the ones struggling in school and are in need of all that the library can provide them.

Q: Do you think with how easy it is to find information on the Internet, that libraries may become a thing of the past and not exist anymore?

A: Never!! Our libraries are changing right along with the changes in technology and information gathering. The school librarian’s job now includes teaching information literacy and learning how to navigate the Internet to find reliable sources. The public library provides access to technology for those that do not have it as well as cutting edge technology, for example many of libraries have 3D printers available for use. Libraries today offer eBooks as well as traditional print books. We provide assistance in learning new technology, while maintaining our traditional collections. In the days of closing bookstores, for many communities the library is their only access to acquiring books.

Q: With the standards in education getting higher for lower grades, do you see a shift in the books that are being written to meet this change in standards?

A: There has become a much stronger emphasis on non-fiction books written for all reading levels. Many books are written to match Common Core standards and often include resource lists to expand on. Our libraries are responding to this earlier emphasis by expanding our collection to include more “Easy Readers”, designed as a bridge between picture books (often used as “read-a-louds”) and chapter books. Additionally, we put a lot of time and resources in encouraging early literacy. Our Story Times are designed to provide early literacy strategies for parents and to prepare children to enter school with pre-reading skills necessary for success.

Q: What ways can a classroom teacher use the library more to help children with reading skills and learning how to navigate a library?

A: Teachers should collaborate with their librarians. Librarians can provide additional classroom support and provide additional materials to support the teacher’s curriculum. Additionally, by bringing the students into the library they will learn skills needed for higher education. This is a critical start for our elementary students since by middle school the libraries are open usually only one day a week. If they learn library skills early, they will be more likely to successfully navigate the larger public library.

Q: What books would you recommend to a child who says they hate reading and all books are boring?

A: First is to determine what that child’s interests are. Additionally, with the increase in non-fiction books that are geared to various reading levels, this is a good option for those not interested in fiction. For the reluctant or struggling reader, graphic novels often are an appeal. Some publishers also focus on high-interest/low reading level books. These are designed for example a student who is in 4th grade but reading at a 2nd grade level. Topics are of their interest, but vocabulary is more attainable and illustrations provide the relief from pages that full text that can be overwhelming for them. Also, books based on popular movies or trends (Star Wars, etc.) often work too.

Q: What book would you recommend to a child in the second grade that reads at a forth grade level? 

A: There are a number of great adventure and classic series that work. Often getting these children interested in a series provides them with their next “go-to”, helpful for voracious readers. I also like to recommend some of the classics: Beverly Cleary books, Mr. Popper’s Penguins, etc. There are many great booklists online and public libraries websites often have book recommendation lists, too.

Q: With budget cuts in schools, some schools no longer have a librarian. Do you think this has impacted a child’s education? If so why or why not?

A: Absolutely! Most of our schools have very limited hours their library is open, if at all. For many of our children, their families do not visit the public libraries and do not have home libraries and therefore the school library is their only exposure to a print-rich environment outside of the classroom. While much of the reading that takes place in the classroom is educationally based, the library offers an opportunity to explore one’s own interests. Reading for pleasure is vital to educational success and growth in so many ways.

Q: Where do you see children’s literature going in the future?

A: Children’s literature will continue to develop. The increase in non-fiction that is designed to be read for pleasure as well as for informational needs is an important facet as well as the need for books that reflect the world that we will live. Quality literature and illustration will always be strived for.

Q: What would the reputable leaders say the trends and issues in children’s literature are?

A: Diversity is truly the topic often talked about. Also, the need to be real with kids. Not to trivialize their lives and thoughts. As far as non-fiction there are drastic differences from the past. Non-fiction books now feature amazing graphics and are exciting to read. They come in all formats: picture books, easy readers, chapter books and the traditional format.

Q: Are there any other issues or trends not talked about that a teacher or a parent should know?

A: Read, read, read! From infancy on! Provide a print-rich environment and make sure they see adults reading for pleasure, too.

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