Teen Programs

One of my favorite assignments this semester was a group project where we created teen programs based upon specific library communities.  My group had 3 libraries we covered in our project; the Ames Free Library of Easton, the Brockton Public Library (what a coincidence that one of my classmates is not only a fellow Brocktonian who works at the library, but we also went to high school together!), and the Copley Branch of the Boston Public Library.

Brockton Public Library

Ames Free Library of Easton

The great thing about this project is that we learned to zero in on the specific communities these libraries were serving to plan a program based upon the teens in that community. This included utilizing local organizations to help create programming for the library and build community partnerships.  While these are not "real" programs that have actually been implemented, they all can be and are based upon actual research.  Since everyone in the class created several programs, we are leaving this class with a ton of ideas and program plans that are ready to go or can be be tweaked to fit the communities we work in!

Boston Public Library Copley Square Branch

My group created a slideshow of the 2 programs we organized, grouping together the Brockton and Boston Public Libraries because they both serve large, diverse city populations and a separate program for the Ames Free Library, which is located in a small, suburban area.

Here is our slideshow!

Community Profiles and YA Programs

Analyzing a Picture Book

There are many criteria that librarians and teachers use when deciding what picture books to add to their collections.  That criteria can also extend to easy readers and nonfiction as well.  Our class used Kathleen Horning's From Cover to Cover once again as a guideline to analyze three books over the course of the semester, one picture book, one easy reader and one children's nonfiction title.  Here are the criteria that Horning discusses in her book:

Text

• Structure
• Patterned Language
• Rhythm
• Rhyme
• Repetition
• Questions
• Predictability
• Pace

Pictures

• Visual Elements
• Line
• Shape
• Texture
• Color
• Value
• Composition
• Dominance
• Contrast
• Gradation
• Alternation
• Balance
• Variation
• Harmony
• Unity

Media

• Drawing
• Painting
• Printmaking
• Collage
• Photography
• Digital Art
• Style

As you can see, there are many elements that a librarian must look at when reviewing children's materials.  Take a look at my Visual Analysis of I Love Saturdays y Domingos by Alma Flor Ada and Elivia Savadier to see for yourself!

The Importance of Teen Services In Libraries

This semester's Young Adult Literature class required me to look at young adult services closely from different perspectives.  The assignments included observing teens in their natural environments ( I observed at the mall after talking to my 13 year old niece for suggestions), analyzing teen space and services at local libraries, and looking closely at library policies that effect teen services.  The results of these assignments, with a few exceptions, were pretty depressing.  Young Adult services were nonexistent  in many of the libraries my classmates and I looked at.  Many of the libraries didn't have Young Adult Librarians, space or programs geared towards this population.  These observations bring up a lot of questions.  Why don't libraries have these things? The sad reality is that because of restricted budgets, many libraries focus on children's programming and services and give the teens whatever may be leftover, which usually isn't much time or consideration.  One of the discussions we had in class focused on the message this sends to teens.  When they are children, they are welcomed at the library with loads of activities and a cozy space, but when they get older they are perceived differently.  They are not greeted with the same excitement as when they were kids, and they don't have a librarian all to themselves to ask for reading recommendations or help with difficult school  assignments.  On top of that,  they don't even have a designated space in the library.  That means they either have to sit in the children's room (gasp!) or the adult area (eek!).

So what's the solution? Librarians need to advocate for better Young Adult Services! Teens and parents should also speak up so that libraries will know they need to make changes for the future-and teens are the future of libraries!  They will be adults one day, and we want them to love the library through all the stages of their lives.  They will determine the future of libraries and keep the cycle continuing on.

This class reinforced my passion as an advocate for young adults, and I plan to take these important lessons with me as I move forward into Youth Services Librarianship.

Writing a Children's Book Review

Writing reviews of  books can be a fun and challenging part of being a librarian.  This was an assignment for my children's literature class, and while it was a very short assignment, it wasn't easy.  Book reviews are often used as a selection tool for other librarians so it's critical to follow certain guidelines.  The "bible" our class used was Kathleen Horning's book From Cover to Cover.  Horning discusses how a review should not be confused with literary criticism.  So what is the difference between the two? "Reviews are limited by time and space; that is a review is published as close as possible  to the publication date of the book under consideration and the reviewer is generally limited to a set number of words" (Horning 167).  Giving a concise review that  critically analyzes the style of the book, the language, theme, plot, etc., is difficult when limited to only a certain number of words.  It is a challenging task that encourages the writer to really look at what the most important aspects of the book are when deciding what to include.  Some other points Horning discusses when writing reviews are:

• It's important to have a broad knowledge of contemporary children's literature in order to make comparisons to other works
• Read the book...a few times
• Keep the review to 100-400 words (mine had to be 150!).  This means you must choose your words carefully.

In From Cover to Cover, Phyllis K Kennemer defines 3 common types of reviews:

1. Descriptive-Objective statements about the characters, plot, theme or illustrations
2. Analytical- Statements about literary and artistic elements, including evaluation, comparison, and mention of contributions to the field.
3. Sociological-Judgements based on nonliterary considerations, such as potential controversial elements or predictions about popularity.

The main thing to keep in mind is to not summarize the book itself so much and be more critical of the actual writing or illustrations.

Here is my review of Umbrella Summer by  Lisa Graff, a book recommended to me by my 11 year old niece.

Umbrella Summer by Lisa Graff, 2009. 235 pages. Scholastic, $4.99. ISBN:978-0-545-23792-5. GR 4-6.

Umbrella Summer is a heartwarming story of love, loss and moving forward.  Eleven year old Annie Richards went from a typical life of riding bikes, making obstacle courses and getting into occasional trouble with her friends to a life of self inflicted hypochondria, obsessive about safety and protecting herself against disease.  Annie’s life changed when her twelve year old brother died unexpectedly of a heart defect.  Now, Annie spends her time wearing protective gear when she does ride her bike, and reading about illnesses and how to prevent them.  Her quirky but caring neighbors and friends try to help her heal, something her parents are incapable of because they are struggling themselves.  When Annie’s extreme behavior begins to affect her closest relationships, a new neighbor moves in.  Mrs. Finch has recently lost her husband, and she gives Annie a copy of Charlotte’s Web.  As the two read and discuss the book together, Annie begins to understand death is a part of life, and that she will find hope and happiness again through honoring her brother’s memory.  Graff's writing style encapsulates a touching tale of coming to terms with grief, making this book an excellent choice for any public or school library collection.

Try your hand at writing a review and let me know what you think!

Spring 2013 Update!

I have a lot of catching up to do! While the Spring semester is well underway (and graduation looms near!) I wanted to update everyone on the fabulous classes I'm enrolled in this Spring and will be posting more about soon! This semester I am taking Young Adult Programs and Services and Children's Literature and Media! Both of these courses are helping prepare me for my future as a Youth Services Librarian.  I'm learning and reading a ton and am inspired every day with exciting program ideas! Stay posted for more as I finish my last semester at Simmons College!

Planning a Library Program

One of my recent assignments was to plan a mock library program.  I based mine on a real idea that I hope to implement at the Ames Free Library.  I learned that a lot of time, staff, resources, outreach and evaluation goes into library programming.  Take a look at my sample program proposal to find out exactly what goes into planning a successful library program.  I'd love to hear from anyone who has implemented a similar manga art program or club at their library!

Manga Art Program Proposal

The following day long Manga Art Program has been carefully built around the large patron group of young adults at the Ames Free Library in the town of Easton.  The purpose of this program is to provide education and entertainment for this population. The performer has been carefully selected by referrals from other librarians in the area and their success with similar programs.  The presenter is experienced and has a detailed website providing information on workshops and even how to start a Manga Club at the library.  The website also gives tips on “how to host a successful workshop” with ideas for Japanese themed snacks, raffles and displays. If this program is popular, the library may want to look at creating a Manga Club that meets weekly to draw and watch movies.  To make this a day long program, an anime film will be shown after the workshop.  Anime is Manga in a film format, allowing patrons to visualize Manga set in motion.

The library will include questions in the evaluation form which will be given out after the program to determine if similar programs would be in the interest of this patron group(please see the Evaluation Form, Appendix A).   If this program is well received and generates interest in other patron groups such as children and adults, workshops are offered for these age groups as well and the library will look into programs that can be created for these patrons.

Description of Program:

Illustrator Andy Fish and his partner Veronica Fish lead a workshop on Japanese Manga for Young Adults. The class covers a history of Manga Art and features a hands-on workshop where patrons begin creating their own Manga Art.  The day long program will begin with this workshop, and then continue with an anime film.

Target Audience

Young Adults, ages 13-17.  This workshop is created for this specific age group, which we hope will draw not only regular patrons of the library but students at both high schools located in Easton.

Cost

$500-$410 for the seventy five minute Manga Art session.  $90 has been reserved for pizza, snacks, drinks and paper products which may not be necessary if these items are donated, as described below.   The number of young adults allowed at the workshop is unlimited so the price is a flat rate as specified by the presenter.

Number of Staff Persons Needed To:

Plan the Program: 2 –The Head of Youth Services Librarian and her Assistant will plan the program.  This includes researching the best day and time for this patron group and adjusting the budget to reflect the cost.  The Youth Services Assistant will look into teaming up with local food stores, many of which will donate food items and paper goods in exchange for being noted as a program sponsor.  This will lower the overall budget for the program and also builds relationships with local businesses. The Youth Services librarians will also select and preview the film that will be shown to reflect age appropriateness for this group.

Promote the Program: 2 –The Assistant Youth Services Librarian will handle promotion of the program by creating flyers and other print materials, some of which are provided by the performer.  The Technology Librarian will be needed to create electronic promotional materials such as e-newsletters and email advertisements.  The Technology Librarian will also promote the program on the library’s social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook and on the library website.

Produce the Program: 2- The Head of Youth Services Librarian and her Assistant will set up the room and create a display of manga novels and how-to drawing materials before the workshop begins.  The Youth Services Assistant will be in charge of food distribution and will present the film.  The Head of Youth Services will introduce the program facilitators and the Assistant Youth Services Librarian will distribute and collect evaluations at the end of the workshop.

Publicity Methods:

As stated above, the library will use a combination of print and electronic publications to promote the program.

Accompanying Library Resources:

A display of related library materials (manga related books, movies and magazines) will be highlighted with promotional posters, etc.  The library copy of the anime DVD  will be used. 

Equipment Needed:

Pencils and paper are included in the price of the workshop.  The presenters will bring their own easel for display purposes.  The library has a large wide screen television and DVD player.  Tables and chairs will be set up accordingly.  Paper plates, napkins and cups will be purchased by the library or donated by local stores.

Refreshments Served:

The presenters want attendees to focus on drawing in the seventy five minute period.  Pizza, snacks and beverages will be provided during the movie viewing following the workshop. 

Audience Evaluations/Reaction to Program:

The library has already generated great interest in a program of this type from the young adult patron group.  After the program, evaluations will be distributed to determine its success.  The library will also look at the number of attendees and observe the workshop itself.  These evaluation methods combine both qualitative and quantitative data to determine the effectiveness of the program.  We hope this program will draw existing and new patrons to the library, promoting the library and all it has to offer to the community.  In times where budgets are being cut and questioned, community support for the library is extremely important.

Appendix A

Evaluation for Young Adult Manga Art Program

1. How did you hear about this program?

1. Advertised at the library
2. Electronic advertisement form the library (Email, Facebook, Twitter)
3. Word of mouth

2. On a scale of 1-5 how satisfied were you with this program?

1 very unsatisfied     2 unsatisfied    3 neutral    4 satisfied   5 very satisfied

3. What did you like best about this program? Please describe below.

4. What did you like least about this program? Please describe below.

5. Would you come to this program again? Please check one:

Yes_____                 No______

6. Would you recommend this program to your friends? Please check one:

Yes_____                  No_____

7. Do you have younger siblings or friends that you think would enjoy a similar program? Please check one:

Yes_____                  No_____

8. Do you know adults that would enjoy this program?

 Yes_____                  No_____

 

9. Would you be interested in a Manga Club at the Ames Free Library?

  Yes_____                  No_____

10. Did the day and time of this program work for you?

   Yes_____                  No_____

11. If not, what days and times are best? Please check all that apply:

Weekdays after school­­­­_____

Saturdays _____

12. Are you interested in similar programs at the library? If yes, please provide your email below: _____________________________________________________

The Science Fiction Genre-The Handmaid's Tale by Maragaret Atwood

When I think of science fiction, I always think of aliens or futuristic worlds with mind boggling technology.  As a librarian, I know I shouldn't generalize a genre like that, and Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale" is a great reminder that Science Fiction isn't always so far fetched.  The subject matter of this novel is actually a bit scary because it is so realistic! Here are some general characteristics of a science fiction novel:

-set in the future
-space travel
-technology
-parallel universe
-aliens
-paranormal

An important thing to note is that Science Fiction and Fantasy are different.  Science Fiction is usually based on a turn of events that could actually happen in reality based upon science, while Fantasy is not. I know that is still up for interpretation, but The Handmaid's Tale is a perfect example of science fiction.  Atwood's title focuses on a society that has collapsed and been reconstructed by an extremist group.  Here is my review:

 The world as we know it is gone.  There was once a society just like ours in the past, but the government has been overthrown and the President and Congress have been murdered.  The infiltration of a new regime has been secretly set up over time, and that makes it easier for them to begin a new society that is based literally on the bible. Gilead is a place where women have no rights, there is no money, and children are scarce due to toxins and chemicals that have been released due to war.  Because of the lack of children, one of the positions for women of child bearing age is to be a handmaid.  Handmaids are issued to married couples of stature and their only job is to procreate so Gilead can go on.  Offred (handmaids are named by the man they work for, i.e., “of Fred”) is a handmaid who details her existence in this story.  She remembers the past, her old life (where she worked in a library!), her husband, daughter, mother and friends.  This is Offred’s third post being a handmaid, and also her last.  If she doesn't succeed this time she will be sent to “the colonies,” where women who have no use go and live in extreme poverty cleaning up the toxins of war.  Offred starts out following the rules as she should, but Fred breaks the rules one night and she begins to risk everything for the possibility of change in her life.

This book is set in the future, in what I would call a twisted dystopian society.  There aren't too many technical or scientific details included in this book, but we know money is no longer used, reading and writing is not allowed and that there is heavy chemical use in the warfare.  Women are subordinated and are only worth something if they can get pregnant. 

This book really freaked me out because I feel like something like this could happen! I would hope that it never would, but the overthrowing of modern society was done quietly so that no one knew what was happening and by the time it was over, there was no way to fight it.  It also made me realize how much I appreciate having freedom and rights, and not to take that for granted, especially because there are women in other areas of the world who don’t.

I think readers of literary fiction, dystopian fiction like the “our strange world” sub-genre  and even horror fans who like more a psychological read would enjoy this title.

To find out more about Science Fiction and recommended books check out these sites:
Online Science Fiction Directory
The Universe of Science Fiction and Fantasy
Locus - The Magazine of the Science Fiction Field
The Science Fact and Fiction Concatenation