Foundations of Library Services and Programming for Children

Book excerpt: Foundations of Library Services and Programming for Children This book provides required foundational practices, both theoretical and practical. It gives students and working librarians the nuts- and- bolts foundation in providing programming and services for children. The book covers critical important elements needed for today’s librarian, thereby benefitting even the seasoned youth librarian. Chapter coverage includes: The Value of Library Services to Children Program Evaluation: Planning for Desired Results Children’s Programming Services and Resources for Children The Library as a Safe Space for All Administration of Children’s Services Looking Ahead: What’s Next in Library Services for Children? An Appendix provides practical resources such as a storytime format, programming planning outline, and program assessment tools. Special topics include issues of censorship attempts, the importance of providing library services to a diverse population, and the need to examine evaluative techniques for program offerings. Each chapter in this text includes multiple opportunities for learning and reflection as well as case-based learning that facilitates problem-solving and experiential learning opportunities.