Kristen McLane

Posted by Kristen McLane on March 21st, 2008 in Books and Resources for Children, Growing Readers, Kids

I am an outspoken fan of the public library. I visit my library weekly. It is fulfilling to walk into the library empty handed and walk out an hour later with my arms stacked chest high with books. I’m not a big shopper but I imagine the feeling is similar to the rush felt by a shopaholic after spending a successful day at the mall.

I am fortunate to live close to an excellent public library. There is even a neighborhood library branch within walking distance to my house. I recognize that not everyone is fortunate to have nearby access to a well-stocked library. If you live close to a good library source consider the following advice:

• Go often with your children
• Respect the library (observe the rules, be responsible to return items on time)
• Treat a library card as a “right of passage” (ownership)
• Participate (story-time, crafts, reading programs)
• Be involved in the selection process but ultimately allow your child to pick out his own books (even if it means the dragging the same book home every week)
• Try new books and authors
• Sample a variety of book genres
• Utilize library resources (card catalog, librarians)
• Relax and enjoy (don’t be rushed, play with puzzles, put on a puppet show, visit the fish tank)
• Take advantage of the variety of media (books, magazines, music, videos, computer)