Thursday, May 19, 2011
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Library Website, Email & Card Catalog-GoAnimate Movie
GoAnimate.com: The Library Website by dexterginelle
Like it? Create your own at GoAnimate.com. It's free and fun!
Like it? Create your own at GoAnimate.com. It's free and fun!
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Read Across America
To promote the Read Across America program, the New York Public Library created a 26-ft tall by 40-ft wide display that spelled out the word “Read” using 25,000 Dr. Seuss books. Link here.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Assistive Technology in School Libraries
Assistive technology is more prevelant in colleges, universities and public libraries than in K-12 libraries. That is not to say that assistive technology has not been introduced to elementary and secondary schools. We have had several visually impaired and hearing impaired students come through our schools. For our hearing impaired, we have special microphones and hearing aids that allow the student to hear and understand the teacher so they may participate in a regular class with their peers. For our visually impaired, we have computers with headphones and special technology that reads what is on the screen.
While it does seem that it is still in its infancy in the K-12 school years (most visually and hearing impaired students attend schools that specialize), assistive technology for younger students is finding its place in public schools.
While it does seem that it is still in its infancy in the K-12 school years (most visually and hearing impaired students attend schools that specialize), assistive technology for younger students is finding its place in public schools.
Assistive Technolgy and Disabled Patrons
Assistive technology is any hardware or software device that disabled people use to help them with everyday life. When we talk about assistive technology in libraries we are primarily concerned with technology that assists the user to access information and conduct study. It is a legal requirement that people with disabilities have equal access to public services such as libraries, and assistive technology is a very useful tool in meeting these requirements. Assistive technology does not have to be expensive. Check out this list of free software available from the internet http://www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/bodley/services/disability/resources/assistive_technology/software
For the visually impaired, one of the main benefits of electronic information is that it can be read by text recognition software, patrons do not have to wait until a librarian or aide becomes available to read to them and therefore they have greater control over their own research. Those with physical disabilities, such as motor control, can take advantage of voice recognition software which replaces manual typing to turn speech into text. There are also software programs such as TextHELP available for patrons with dyslexia.
Librarians who purchase electronic equipment or design electronic interfaces must take into consideration the requirement to accommodate people with disabilities in addition to many other purchasing factors. As technology continues to advance rapidly, library staff struggling to keep up will also struggle to keep up with advancements in assistive technology. Although libraries, like other public institutions, do their best to comply with legal requirements, I do feel that they often fall short in serving disabled patrons. Staff attitudes can help address the situation as a willingness to help can often reduce frustrations. Staff training is vital in servicing those with disabilities, and there is a lot of room for improvement in this area.
For the visually impaired, one of the main benefits of electronic information is that it can be read by text recognition software, patrons do not have to wait until a librarian or aide becomes available to read to them and therefore they have greater control over their own research. Those with physical disabilities, such as motor control, can take advantage of voice recognition software which replaces manual typing to turn speech into text. There are also software programs such as TextHELP available for patrons with dyslexia.
Librarians who purchase electronic equipment or design electronic interfaces must take into consideration the requirement to accommodate people with disabilities in addition to many other purchasing factors. As technology continues to advance rapidly, library staff struggling to keep up will also struggle to keep up with advancements in assistive technology. Although libraries, like other public institutions, do their best to comply with legal requirements, I do feel that they often fall short in serving disabled patrons. Staff attitudes can help address the situation as a willingness to help can often reduce frustrations. Staff training is vital in servicing those with disabilities, and there is a lot of room for improvement in this area.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Assistive and Adaptive Technology
Until this past summer I had never given much thought to adaptations for Disabled persons. This past summer my mother became disabled, and my whole concept of how this world needs to be accessable to ALL people was broadened. The library is no different than the grocery store, mall, or school; it needs to be adapted for those who need extra help. The library can offer several adaptations for those with diabilities. Often computers can make life easier for those with disabilities, unless you are blind or have eyesight issues. In addtion to books on tape/cd/mp3, the library can offer screen maginifiers and screen reading software. The screen reading software can read the text in voices and different speeds. For those who have coordination or motor skill troubles the library can offer touchpads or trackballs which are easier to use than a mouse. Many patrons also experience difficulty hearing and the library can help them also. Libraries can use virtual reference or librarians to communincate, nowadays this is taking the place of TTY equipment. Besides meeting the needs for physical disablilities, the library can help meet the needs of economic disabilities. The offering of free computer use and internet connection is huge, especially since our world seems more technology driven then ever. I think the library can use adaptive techonology is many ways, all the ways add up to a better quality of library use for those in need.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Assistive Technology
First, what is an assistive technology? According to the ATMn (Assistive Technology of Minnesota) website, it's any "device that allows an individual with a disability to do what they could not do without the device. Assistive Technology ranges from highly complex technology to simple adjustments that can make life more dignified, remove barriers and change lives."
Why is this important in libraries? According to the Census, there are 54 million people with disabilities in this country. Why is it important for libraries? A library's mission is to provide services to everyone, and 54 million is hardly a tiny minority that can be overlooked. So it's a library's ethical obligation to provide universal access through assistive technology.
A few examples of assistive technologies in use in libraries:
CCTV
Closed circuit televisions used as print magnifiers magnify a printed page and display it on a screen. These are useful for sight-impaired users who are using print resources.
Alternative Keyboards
Alternative keyboards are keyboards that have been designed for ease of use. Some are simply ergonomic or one-handed, but many are fancier. There are waterproof foldable keyboards, keyboards with a touch sensitive layer specifically for people who find it difficult to use a mouse, and miniature wireless keyboards.
Desks/Tables
While researching for this blog post, I learned something new: there is no such thing as a "standard" wheelchair. So if a library assumes that because one wheelchair fits fine with their tables and desks, they're wrong because a user could come in with a different chair and be unable to use the library the way they want to. This is where adjustable surfaces come in. Adjustable tables and desks move up or down and some allow the user to tilt the table top (though, obviously a tilting table would be a poor choice for a computer station). They are adjusted by a hand crank or have a power lift.
Optical Character Recognition Scanners and Software
OCR devices are also something I heard about for the first time while researching for this post. What they do is scan a printed page and upload it to a computer where it can be edited for a user's needs. An example is if a sight-impaired patron needed to be able to read a worksheet. The worksheet would be scanned, converted to braille using the OCR software, and printed for the user using a braille embossing machine.
Refreshable Braille Displays
This is by far the coolest thing I learned about while doing this research. Refreshable Braille displays are computer screens that display everything in braille. Small pins go up or down to form content in braille. This provides access to the internet and other electronic resources for the hearing impaired.
Why is this important in libraries? According to the Census, there are 54 million people with disabilities in this country. Why is it important for libraries? A library's mission is to provide services to everyone, and 54 million is hardly a tiny minority that can be overlooked. So it's a library's ethical obligation to provide universal access through assistive technology.
A few examples of assistive technologies in use in libraries:
CCTV
Closed circuit televisions used as print magnifiers magnify a printed page and display it on a screen. These are useful for sight-impaired users who are using print resources.
Alternative Keyboards
Alternative keyboards are keyboards that have been designed for ease of use. Some are simply ergonomic or one-handed, but many are fancier. There are waterproof foldable keyboards, keyboards with a touch sensitive layer specifically for people who find it difficult to use a mouse, and miniature wireless keyboards.
Desks/Tables
While researching for this blog post, I learned something new: there is no such thing as a "standard" wheelchair. So if a library assumes that because one wheelchair fits fine with their tables and desks, they're wrong because a user could come in with a different chair and be unable to use the library the way they want to. This is where adjustable surfaces come in. Adjustable tables and desks move up or down and some allow the user to tilt the table top (though, obviously a tilting table would be a poor choice for a computer station). They are adjusted by a hand crank or have a power lift.
Optical Character Recognition Scanners and Software
OCR devices are also something I heard about for the first time while researching for this post. What they do is scan a printed page and upload it to a computer where it can be edited for a user's needs. An example is if a sight-impaired patron needed to be able to read a worksheet. The worksheet would be scanned, converted to braille using the OCR software, and printed for the user using a braille embossing machine.
Refreshable Braille Displays
This is by far the coolest thing I learned about while doing this research. Refreshable Braille displays are computer screens that display everything in braille. Small pins go up or down to form content in braille. This provides access to the internet and other electronic resources for the hearing impaired.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Adaptive Technology
In the preface of her book, Adaptive Technology for the Internet: Making Electronic Resources Accessible to All, Barbara T. Mates points out that while most libraries include the words “equal access” in their mission statements, not all libraries take into consideration the needs of people with disabilities when purchasing equipment or software. I’ve included the link the preface below. There are people out there trying to change that. I found the website http://www.disabiltyresources.org/. The website is a little hard to search, but I was able to find a good list of available devices that librarians could use to help determine what might need to be purchased. The list is part of a paper by Courtney Denies-Jones entitled Opening New Worlds of Information: Library Technology and Internet Access for Patrons with Disabilities. Until now, I didn’t realize there were so many software and hardware options available. Since no library can purchase every piece of equipment available, I’m glad Ms. Denies-Jones provided hints on how library staff can determine what technology should be acquired. What surprised me was that simple changes like having a trackball instead of a traditional mouse can make a big difference in terms of access. Preface to Barbara T Mates book. http://www.ala.org/Template.cfm?section=ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=22254 Courtney Denies-Jones paper http://www.ualberta.ca/dept/slis/cais/deines.htm
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Twitter and Libraries
I chose Twitter to write about in relation to libraries because, historically, I have been very anti-Twitter. My entire attitude toward Twitter can be summed up in the following words: no one cares what you had for lunch.
However, people do (or, okay, they SHOULD) care about libraries. Most library users are interested in knowing the news, events, and various goings-on of their local library. When a library is on Twitter, it can dispense little bits of information that wouldn't really suit in a blog-post format. A library could tweet that there is an unscheduled storytime on a certain day, or that the library will be closed for an hour because of a toilet leak.
Another good reason libraries should use Twitter is that it is by nature a time-saver. They're mini-notes that can be read in an instant. Most people are unlikely to continually check their library's newsletter or blog page, but if they "follow" their library on Twitter, they see tidbits from the library along with their regular tweet stream.
However, people do (or, okay, they SHOULD) care about libraries. Most library users are interested in knowing the news, events, and various goings-on of their local library. When a library is on Twitter, it can dispense little bits of information that wouldn't really suit in a blog-post format. A library could tweet that there is an unscheduled storytime on a certain day, or that the library will be closed for an hour because of a toilet leak.
Another good reason libraries should use Twitter is that it is by nature a time-saver. They're mini-notes that can be read in an instant. Most people are unlikely to continually check their library's newsletter or blog page, but if they "follow" their library on Twitter, they see tidbits from the library along with their regular tweet stream.
Social Media and Schools
Different forms of social media can be useful in elementary and secondary schools. A classroom facebook page can keep parents informed on daily activities and can also be a great way for students to connect with other classes around the U.S. and the world. It's also a good way to teach students the correct and safe way to use the internet.
Blogging is another useful media tool and is used at my school by many teachers. A homework assignment could be to watch a science program and then blog about what was learned or students would be asked to answer a question on the teachers blog. It's a great way for students to learn and share and for teachers to gauge what their students are learning.
Blogging is another useful media tool and is used at my school by many teachers. A homework assignment could be to watch a science program and then blog about what was learned or students would be asked to answer a question on the teachers blog. It's a great way for students to learn and share and for teachers to gauge what their students are learning.
Social Media means free marketing.
One of the greatest things about Social Media is that its free to use. This is great news for libraries, especially in cash strapped days like these. Social Media is great for marketing, which is often badly funded in libraryland and sometimes poorly executed. With social media tools like Facebook, it is rather easy to produce a professional looking marketing campaign to communicate directly with the end user.
Social media is ultimately about making connections with and between patrons and creating a sense of community. Many librarians buy into the idea of the library functioning as a community center so it makes sense to engage in social media that promotes this aim.
Unfortunatley many libraries use social media to simply broadcast infomation, treating it as a one way medium and failing to capitalize on the power of the medium. A library should have a goal in mind when using social media, not just use it because everyone else is. Libraries that do not have clear goals about why they are using social media will most likely have few followers which may in fact hurt the library's image rather than improve it.There is nothing worse than looking at a really dull profile page that shows no imagination or creativity.
Social media is ultimately about making connections with and between patrons and creating a sense of community. Many librarians buy into the idea of the library functioning as a community center so it makes sense to engage in social media that promotes this aim.
Unfortunatley many libraries use social media to simply broadcast infomation, treating it as a one way medium and failing to capitalize on the power of the medium. A library should have a goal in mind when using social media, not just use it because everyone else is. Libraries that do not have clear goals about why they are using social media will most likely have few followers which may in fact hurt the library's image rather than improve it.There is nothing worse than looking at a really dull profile page that shows no imagination or creativity.
Social Media can help Libraries
Social Media is a great tool. Not only is it fun and a good communication venue for people socially, it can be helpful to buisnesses and academic institutions, including libraries. Buisnesses have all jumped on the bandwagon to get on "Twitter" and "Facebook" to grow their revenues and get free or low-priced advertising. An example of this is found in the buisness Jazzercise. I am a certified Jazzercise instructor. I was amazed at the way they used "Twitter" as free advertising and to build excitment for a new location. When the location finally opened it had huge and immediate success, due in part to the use of social media. I believe a library can use social media the same way. A library should be using "Twitter " or "Facebook" to build excitement and build a following for the library. It is free or low-priced advertising for the library. It does require some time output, but the cost is low. Social media could help build a relationship between the patron and the library, especially with the younger generation of upcoming technology users.
Another way a library can benefit from social media is the use of Youtube. Youtube is a great resource for tutorials and "how to" videos. When library patrons can watch short videos on how to search the card catalog or use resources online, it will be more effective for Librarians. With the reduction in funds to all libraries, library staff must look for ways to make the most of their time. Having patrons have online directions will free up much need time for Libraians to do other duties required. Overall, social media is a benefit to libraries, when used the correct way.
Another way a library can benefit from social media is the use of Youtube. Youtube is a great resource for tutorials and "how to" videos. When library patrons can watch short videos on how to search the card catalog or use resources online, it will be more effective for Librarians. With the reduction in funds to all libraries, library staff must look for ways to make the most of their time. Having patrons have online directions will free up much need time for Libraians to do other duties required. Overall, social media is a benefit to libraries, when used the correct way.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Social Media Tools
Video sharing sites like YouTube have the potential to help libraries connect with current and future patrons. Whether it is a funny video of librarians lip-syncing Lady Gaga or a well designed tutorial, a creative and technologically inclined library staff can make their presence known. YouTube is great tool for educating the public regarding what services are available and how to use those resources. YouTube appeals to visual learners, who like to see tasks demonstrated instead of reading instructions. I was able to find a pretty good tutorial on how to use Palomar’s online library database. Youtube can also be used to get patrons excited about upcoming events. For example, the City of San Diego put out this promotional video regarding the new central library. This is more interesting than a flyer or email blast.
Libraries need to keep up with changing technology and trends. By communicating with people using technology they are already using and are familiar with, libraries can continue to stay relevent.
Libraries need to keep up with changing technology and trends. By communicating with people using technology they are already using and are familiar with, libraries can continue to stay relevent.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
HarperCollins Sets Restrictions on eBooks' Library Use
http://www.nytimes.com/chrome/#/Technology//www.nytimes.com/2011/03/15/business/media/15libraries.html
This article discusses the new restrictions that HarperCollins in enforcing on eBook use in libraries and includes thoughts from ALA president Roberta Stevens. The new change is that everyone's getting upset about is that the maximum number of times a HarperCollins eBook can be checked out of a library is 26. Assuming a 2 week checkout period, this works out to an eBook being valid for about a year, and then the library has to pay more fees.
How do you guys feel about this?
This article discusses the new restrictions that HarperCollins in enforcing on eBook use in libraries and includes thoughts from ALA president Roberta Stevens. The new change is that everyone's getting upset about is that the maximum number of times a HarperCollins eBook can be checked out of a library is 26. Assuming a 2 week checkout period, this works out to an eBook being valid for about a year, and then the library has to pay more fees.
How do you guys feel about this?
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
And For An Extra Dollar You Get a Bag of Cheetohs with Your Book: Welcome to the World of Library Vending Machines
Competency #2 Describe how a library could use technology to enhance or replace a face-to-face service
You think privatization is bad? Some communities are opting to use metal lockers/vending machines to dispense library material. In Hugo, Minnesota, library patrons can go online, select their titles and in a few days they can pick up the items from a locked metal compartment. (Dougherty,Wall Street Journal) With their Library A-Go-Go program, the Contra County Library system is using vending machines to dispense books. Each machine houses up to 400 books. The library patron scans his library card, locates the title via a touch screen menu and walks away with the item if it is in stock. This and other similar services eliminate the need for patrons to have face-to-face contact with library staff. For example, if a patron utilizes the “ask a librarian” or virtual reference service to find the material, then goes online to have the material dropped off at a lockbox the patron was able to find material without have to talk to a human being face to face. The lock boxes and vending machines do have the potential to expand a library’s ability to get material into the hands of patrons who may not be able to make it to a local branch easily. My concern is that the primary drive to expand and improve these types of services is to save money not improve the service to the public.
Interesting Links
Link to Contra County Library's System's Lbrary A-Go-Go http://tinyurl.com/3evb45
Library Journal Article " A Vending Library is No Library" http://tinyurl.com/4zm9bzq
Wall Steet Journal Article "New Library Technologies Dispense With Librarians" //http://tinyurl.com/26d2udn
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You think privatization is bad? Some communities are opting to use metal lockers/vending machines to dispense library material. In Hugo, Minnesota, library patrons can go online, select their titles and in a few days they can pick up the items from a locked metal compartment. (Dougherty,Wall Street Journal) With their Library A-Go-Go program, the Contra County Library system is using vending machines to dispense books. Each machine houses up to 400 books. The library patron scans his library card, locates the title via a touch screen menu and walks away with the item if it is in stock. This and other similar services eliminate the need for patrons to have face-to-face contact with library staff. For example, if a patron utilizes the “ask a librarian” or virtual reference service to find the material, then goes online to have the material dropped off at a lockbox the patron was able to find material without have to talk to a human being face to face. The lock boxes and vending machines do have the potential to expand a library’s ability to get material into the hands of patrons who may not be able to make it to a local branch easily. My concern is that the primary drive to expand and improve these types of services is to save money not improve the service to the public.
Interesting Links
Link to Contra County Library's System's Lbrary A-Go-Go http://tinyurl.com/3evb45
Library Journal Article " A Vending Library is No Library" http://tinyurl.com/4zm9bzq
Wall Steet Journal Article "New Library Technologies Dispense With Librarians" //http://tinyurl.com/26d2udn
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Library Technology, is it replacing people?
There is no way around it, technology is a big part of any library in this age. Each year the technology advances and is used as a resource to the library system. I work in an elementary school library, and we utilize technology even with our limited budget and resources. Currently I feel that technology enhances the service I am able to give my students and staff.
The most frequently used technology is the online catalog system. The students have access to computers and are able to search for any books they would like using title, author, subject or keyword. This service helps make the students independent and allows me to help more students in the short amount of time we have together. Another technology used in the library is online reference materials such as dictionaries and encyclopedias. The children use these resources so much I am seeing the loss of reference book skills, which is scary for someone like me who was raised on reference books, not computers.
Overall I see these new technologies as a benefit for my library, and myself. I don't see these technologies replacing me, but I do see them being used to make me more efficient. The students still have trouble using the technology, finding books and often ask my for my opinion and recommendation, which a computer can't do! But I would be remiss to add that in light of these tough budget times, and the possible reduction of elementary library services, I am worried someday these services could work me out of a job, or at least a full-time position!
The most frequently used technology is the online catalog system. The students have access to computers and are able to search for any books they would like using title, author, subject or keyword. This service helps make the students independent and allows me to help more students in the short amount of time we have together. Another technology used in the library is online reference materials such as dictionaries and encyclopedias. The children use these resources so much I am seeing the loss of reference book skills, which is scary for someone like me who was raised on reference books, not computers.
Overall I see these new technologies as a benefit for my library, and myself. I don't see these technologies replacing me, but I do see them being used to make me more efficient. The students still have trouble using the technology, finding books and often ask my for my opinion and recommendation, which a computer can't do! But I would be remiss to add that in light of these tough budget times, and the possible reduction of elementary library services, I am worried someday these services could work me out of a job, or at least a full-time position!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Beautiful Library
While browsing photos on Flickr tonight, I found a really striking picture of a library- The Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library. I just thought that picture was so drool-worthy, and then I read about the library itself. Information about the library and its collections is available on the official site.
There's lots of information about it but to encapsulate it, it's just what it sounds like it is- a really beautifully built library full of amazing texts. It's located at Yale so that explains why it's so visually stunning (rich people built it!). A really neat aspect of this library is that its holdings (along with all the other Yale libraries) are searchable; click this link to browse!
There's lots of information about it but to encapsulate it, it's just what it sounds like it is- a really beautifully built library full of amazing texts. It's located at Yale so that explains why it's so visually stunning (rich people built it!). A really neat aspect of this library is that its holdings (along with all the other Yale libraries) are searchable; click this link to browse!
Friday, March 4, 2011
Technology can Enhance or Replace Services
I work in a circulation department, and I often wonder if I will be completely replaced in the future by the self-check-out machine, which at the moment is a service which enhances my job role. I have noticed that many patrons prefer to use the self-checkout. Most of the patrons I serve need to speak to a person becasue they have problems or issues. They may want to pay cash for a fine or a DVD rental, a functionality that the machine can not handle (yet!), or they need more information about their account than they can access from the machine.Of course, there are people who prefer a face-to face service too, but it's no longer essential.
Virtual reference is another service which is enhancing face-to- face reference, and is even more convenient when it is operated 24/7, in which case it is often replacing the face to face service. Virtual reference is a fantastic service, especially for remote users, or people who need to use services at irregular hours, not everyone is able to come into the library between 9 and 5.
At the moment these relatively new services seem to be enhancing service to patrons, they are an addition to the service, working hand in hand with face-to-face services. However, I don't think its unreasonable to speculate that one day these types of services could entirely replace staff. It almost seems like a logical way to save money. Libraries are already offering more online services such as e-books and databases and online language programs, and we already have fully digital libraries. Technolgy skills are going to be essential for anyone who wants to work in this environment.
Virtual reference is another service which is enhancing face-to- face reference, and is even more convenient when it is operated 24/7, in which case it is often replacing the face to face service. Virtual reference is a fantastic service, especially for remote users, or people who need to use services at irregular hours, not everyone is able to come into the library between 9 and 5.
At the moment these relatively new services seem to be enhancing service to patrons, they are an addition to the service, working hand in hand with face-to-face services. However, I don't think its unreasonable to speculate that one day these types of services could entirely replace staff. It almost seems like a logical way to save money. Libraries are already offering more online services such as e-books and databases and online language programs, and we already have fully digital libraries. Technolgy skills are going to be essential for anyone who wants to work in this environment.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Multimedia & Computer Technology in the Library
There are many forms of multimedia and computer technology being used today to create information in the library setting.
One media being used at my kid's high school is a digital picture frame being used for monthly book talks. The librarian loads information regarding new or interesting books onto the memory card and it scrolls through with pictures of the book cover, book synopsis, short bio of the author and reader reviews. It's become a great tool to get some really good books into circulation that students might otherwise not think about.
One media being used at my kid's high school is a digital picture frame being used for monthly book talks. The librarian loads information regarding new or interesting books onto the memory card and it scrolls through with pictures of the book cover, book synopsis, short bio of the author and reader reviews. It's become a great tool to get some really good books into circulation that students might otherwise not think about.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
A Link to The ALA's List of Great Graphic Novels for Teens
Graphic novels and comic books can be a great way to get a poor or reluctant reader to read. Below is a link to the ALA's great graphic novels for teens.
http://http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/booklistsawards/greatgraphicnovelsforteens/gn.cfm
http://http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/booklistsawards/greatgraphicnovelsforteens/gn.cfm
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Young Adult Fiction is a Publishing Phenomena
There is a greater choice of books available to young adults than ever before, despite the fact that as a nation, reading is on the decline. In fact, young adult fiction is a booming business, which has lead David Levithan (author of ‘Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist’) to state that we are enjoying a “golden age for young adult books”. According to the publishing industry, American teens are reading up a storm. However, record book sales may also indicate that adults are buying and reading young adult fiction too. I know many adults who have read the Harry Potter and Twilight series for enjoyment, attracted to the well written plots. Thanks to writers like J.K. Rowling, the standard for young adult books is rising and the genre is no longer only for kids, adults get kicks out of teen fiction too.
Of course, adults and teens respond differently to fiction, studies suggest that the teen brain is more susceptible to influence and it’s interesting to look at what messages a book might be sending to a teen audience. For example, the ‘Twilight’ series has been criticized for being anti-feminist (Bella is too passive) and conservative (read no sex before marriage). Not necessarily what you might expect from a ‘dark’ vampire novel. Dark literature is ‘en-vogue' with young adults at the moment. Consider books like “The Hunger Games” set in a grim post-apocalyptic future, or “Thirteen Reasons Why” narrated by a dead girl who committed suicide. As dark as these titles are, they deal with emotions and problems that speak to young adults, and they ultimately contain elements of hope.
I don’t believe that books for young adults have to contain a moral; books written solely for this purpose are usually rejected by young adults. I’m a big advocate of reading for enjoyment, whether that is a throw- away graphic novel or a classic novel. I think that books that might seem ‘trivial’ to adults often deal with real-life issues and concerns that affect teenagers in their daily lives.
Of course, adults and teens respond differently to fiction, studies suggest that the teen brain is more susceptible to influence and it’s interesting to look at what messages a book might be sending to a teen audience. For example, the ‘Twilight’ series has been criticized for being anti-feminist (Bella is too passive) and conservative (read no sex before marriage). Not necessarily what you might expect from a ‘dark’ vampire novel. Dark literature is ‘en-vogue' with young adults at the moment. Consider books like “The Hunger Games” set in a grim post-apocalyptic future, or “Thirteen Reasons Why” narrated by a dead girl who committed suicide. As dark as these titles are, they deal with emotions and problems that speak to young adults, and they ultimately contain elements of hope.
I don’t believe that books for young adults have to contain a moral; books written solely for this purpose are usually rejected by young adults. I’m a big advocate of reading for enjoyment, whether that is a throw- away graphic novel or a classic novel. I think that books that might seem ‘trivial’ to adults often deal with real-life issues and concerns that affect teenagers in their daily lives.
Reading for pre-teens and young adults
I love to read. I have tried to instill this passion in my three children (I hope I have been successful, but I am still working with child #3). Needless to say it is hard for me to imagine children and young adults who do not share my enjoyment of reading. I recently re-entered the work force as a Elementary School Librarian, and I am shocked by the number of children I come across who do not like to read, or have any desire to read. It is a battle to get many of these children to check out books at all, let alone chapter books. I would like to believe that a lot of these "non-readers" would fall in love with books, if provided with a great story that meets their interest. That is why I believe the variety of young adult literature being offered today is great, so many different genres and interests, so many relevant topics for our children. I know some argue that the content is questionable and the material is not stimulating, but I often think that is not the point. I believe the point is to peak the interest of young adults, to get them reading. If they start reading with regularity, then the content and the "meatier" books will follow. Once a love for literature begins, it can take on a life of it's own, growing and expanding a young adults mind and interests. I say "happy reading"...how exciting to see where it will take them.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Literature for Young People
Being a middle school librarian, I get to read many of the books that come into my library. I make a point of reading anything that is popular with the kids so I can talk to them about the books. I also read anything that catches my eye when I'm out putting books away or entering new books into the computer. I"ve compared some of the books out there from generations past with what is being written and read today and I have to say, with a few exceptions, writers are much better today at getting kids fired up about reading. I believe just in the past decade, some of the best pre-teen/teen/young adult novels have been written. Books now not only entertain (Harry Potter, Alex Rider, Maximum Ride, etc) but they make kids think and open the lines of discussion on a variety of hot topics - date rape/Speak, alcohol & drugs/Forged by Fire, suicide/Thirteen Reasons Why - because let's face it, this is what pre-teens, teenagers and young adults are talking about.
I like that I can recommend books to my kids on just about anything that may interest them. I like that I find myself not only entertained when I read many of these books, but I'm asking myself questions, too. It opens up the lines of communication with my own kids because I'll read a book with a hot topic and bring it up at home to them and we'll all discuss it around the dinner table.
I do know there is a lot of drivel out there, books so not worth anyone's time that I wonder how they got published. But I do think there are enough good writer's continuing to spark young reader's interest and challenge them to think.
I like that I can recommend books to my kids on just about anything that may interest them. I like that I find myself not only entertained when I read many of these books, but I'm asking myself questions, too. It opens up the lines of communication with my own kids because I'll read a book with a hot topic and bring it up at home to them and we'll all discuss it around the dinner table.
I do know there is a lot of drivel out there, books so not worth anyone's time that I wonder how they got published. But I do think there are enough good writer's continuing to spark young reader's interest and challenge them to think.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech
Here is one of my favorite young adult novels. It is exciting, touching, funny, adventureous, and deep all at once. There are a lot of great discussions to be had throughout the reading of this book.
Young Adult Literature
Young adult literature is a hot topic right now because everyone seems to have an opinion- positive or negative. Some cite books like Twilight as literary junk food, turning youngsters' brains into flab. Others say these kinds of fun, light books are good because "at least they get kids reading."
When I looked up the ALA list of the best books for young adults, I was surprised. Very few of the books seem to have nuanced plots. Some were clearly desperate ploys to get the video game addicted generation to read, with plots centered around whild action and fairytale characters. Some are all too realistic, dealing with themes of delinquency, abortion, and abuse. Obviously these authors are trying to relate to young adult readers, but must they be so dreary. Should everything a teen reads be some kind of moral building block?
Most people think that it's a good idea for young adults to read books that feature good morals and values and of course it's good to have good influences at that point in your life. But shouldn't reading be fun? Who cares how wholesome a book is if it's absolute drudgery to read. To illustrate my feelings, I'll post here one of the books that made it onto the ALA's top books for 2010:
Yes, both are real books: Those were the descriptions of Jacqueline Davies' Lostand Amy Efaw's After. Then there are books that sound simply... too dumb for the average YA reader. As a teen I waned to read books that helped me understand society and how the world works. Most kids read to be entertained but keep reading because they know they're growing from it. One particular ALA-recommended book I found that seemed not very encouraging to social and mental growth was Rita Williams-Garcias's Jumped.
When I looked up the ALA list of the best books for young adults, I was surprised. Very few of the books seem to have nuanced plots. Some were clearly desperate ploys to get the video game addicted generation to read, with plots centered around whild action and fairytale characters. Some are all too realistic, dealing with themes of delinquency, abortion, and abuse. Obviously these authors are trying to relate to young adult readers, but must they be so dreary. Should everything a teen reads be some kind of moral building block?
Most people think that it's a good idea for young adults to read books that feature good morals and values and of course it's good to have good influences at that point in your life. But shouldn't reading be fun? Who cares how wholesome a book is if it's absolute drudgery to read. To illustrate my feelings, I'll post here one of the books that made it onto the ALA's top books for 2010:
"Essie, 16, sews all day for pennies at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory to help feed her fatherless family and now to forget her little sister's death. Then the fire happens."
"Soccer star Devon never admitted to herself that she was pregnant. Now she’s in detention, facing charges of attempted murder after delivering a baby and dumping it in the trash."
Yes, both are real books: Those were the descriptions of Jacqueline Davies' Lostand Amy Efaw's After. Then there are books that sound simply... too dumb for the average YA reader. As a teen I waned to read books that helped me understand society and how the world works. Most kids read to be entertained but keep reading because they know they're growing from it. One particular ALA-recommended book I found that seemed not very encouraging to social and mental growth was Rita Williams-Garcias's Jumped.
"When Trina unknowingly insults Dominique in the hallway, she’s in danger of being jumped after school. Leticia could warn her, but she’s reluctant to get involved."Uh, okay, and then what happened? Is that the whole story? Don't young readers deserve better? Of course, I don't want to imply that books should be constant excitement and intellectual discussion; realities of life should be reflected in fiction. I simply feel that more kids would be regular readers if:
- authors didn't treat YA literature as an opportunity to moralize
- there were more books with realistic, non-corny themes
- authors wrote more thought-provoking books for young readers
- authors wrote less books that lead the reader along like cattle without letting them enjoy the nuances of the written word
"Soccer star Devon never admitted to herself that she was pregnant. Now she’s in detention, facing charges of attempted murder after delivering a baby and dumping it in the trash."
Theme: Young Adults and Media
The theme for our blog is Young Adults and Media. We hope to discuss many topics involving young adults, literature, media services, security, social networking and electronic resources. We look forward to your input!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Feb. 9 2011
Sarah Schneider has made two changes to blog: First change was the Header font and color change. The second change is that I added a link to Palomar college to our page!
Do I need to send these changes to Linda Morrow's email? Does anyone know?
thanks!
Do I need to send these changes to Linda Morrow's email? Does anyone know?
thanks!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Best Selling Children's Books
Ginelle's 2nd change: I added Amazon's list of Top 40 Best Selling Children's Books.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Copyright
Leslie's 1st change to the template: I added a copyright at the bottom with all our names.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
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