Bringing Classes into the Public Library: A Handbook for Librarians

With so much competing for the time of today's students, youth services librarians have an especially challenging job. How can they reach their target audience? One of the surest ways is the promotion--through the local school system--of a series of class visits to the public library. But where to begin? Choosing a grade level, contacting school officials and teachers, and planning age-appropriate programs are among the many steps that librarians must take--but may feel unprepared for.

Encouraging the collaboration of professionals in public libraries and local schools, this comprehensive guide presents a detailed framework for a versatile program of class visits. Written by two public librarians with firsthand experience, it describes, in a step-by-step format, how to accomplish a structured series of class visits. The book addresses procedures, planning and implementation, and offers suggestions for both elementary and secondary school visits. Informational packets and other print materials are provided for each level. Possible challenges are discussed, with thoughts on their impact on the overall program and ways to find workable solutions. The appendices contains easily adaptable templates including sample schedules, letters to teachers and evaluation forms.

Martha Seif Simpson is head of children's services at Stratford Library Association in Stratford, Connecticut.

Lucretia I. Duwel is the head of Teen Services at the Stratford Library Association in Stratford, Connecticut. She has co-chaired the regional YA Roundtable of the Connecticut Library Association.