Helping Homeschoolers in the Library - Softcover

Pettinelli, Adrienne

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0838909558 ISBN 13: 9780838909553

Publisher: ALA Editions, 2008

Synopsis

In the past decade, the rise of homeschooling has had a tremendous impact on public libraries. Research from the National Center of Education Statistics (NCES) reveals that of the 1.1 million children being homeschooled in the United States, 78% of homeschooling parents use the public library as their primary resource of learning materials. Yet, most librarians are unequipped and unprepared to reach this specific group of patrons.

This practical guidebook seeks to bridge the gap between librarians and homeschoolers in these two ways: who are homeschoolers and how can I help them practically? Part 1 addresses the history and background of homeschooling as well as the needs and viewpoints of various homeschooling groups. Part 2 deals specifically with building programs and services for the homeschooling population.

Addressing all age groups, from how to serve elementary school children and teens, to even the homeschooling parent, homeschooling expert Furness offers

# In-depth chapters dedicated to different types of homeschooling and unschooling movements
# Comprehensive discussion of resources to serve the diverse homeschooling population
# Ideas on programs and social outlets the library can provide
# Annotated lists of further readings at the end of each chapter, plus website resources and electronic discussion lists
# 17 real life stories of librarians interacting with homeschoolers

By moving past stereotypes and understanding what resources are available, librarians can be important allies to this diverse group of patrons. Children s and YA librarians, library directors, support staff working with youth in public libraries and educators will find the information and tools they need to develop policies, programs, and services to support homeschoolers in their communities.

About this title

From Booklist

In 2003, 1.1 million U.S. children were homeschooled, and 78 percent of their parents used the public library as their primary resource for learning materials. This book offers guidance in how to reach these parents and their children in grades K–12. Part 1 defines the field of homeschooling, including Unschooling Movement, homeschooling for religious reasons, homeschooling children with special needs, and other trends. Part 2 addresses how to serve homeschoolers by creating special programs, building a special collection, and more. The book provides 17 real-life examples, an annotated list of further readings at the end of each chapter, Web site resources, and discussion lists. In addition, Furness shares a copy of her “Serving Homeschoolers” grant application (NY State, 2005–07), which can serve as a model for other grant writers. An excellent basic primer full of practical suggestions for working with homeschoolers. --Esther Sinofsky

About this edition

• Publisher: ALA Editions
• Publication date: 2008
• ISBN 10: 0838909558
• ISBN 13: 9780838909553
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 152