Ten Passive Library Programs for Tweens

Kids ages 8 to 12 are often too busy with scheduled activities of their own to make it to library programs in the afternoons or evenings. For librarians who wish to increase attendance at programs for this age group, this can be very frustrating, but it also opens up an opportunity to offer passive programming. […]

Tips for Playing the Ukulele at Story Time

I am fortunate to be married to an experienced music teacher who is very generous with his musical knowledge. Two years ago, he bought me a ukulele for my birthday, and provided a few lessons, which enabled me to begin playing live music at story time. The ukulele has since become a regular part of […]

Books for New Babies (A Gift Guide)

It’s never too early to start reading to a new baby, or to start building his or her personal library. If a new baby has joined your family recently, it’s a great idea to give the little one a book as a holiday gift. There are so many books being marketed to babies, it can […]

Five Ways to Use a Flannel Board During Story Time

One of my favorite props to use in library programs is the flannel board. It is a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the story time experience for kids and their families. Here are five different ways to incorporate a flannel board into your own story times. Provide […]

Library Crafts for the Craft-Phobic Children’s Librarian

Many children’s librarians are crafty. They happily pull out the glitter and never bat an eyelash at the thought of allowing the kids to paint. Children come marching out of their story times carrying gorgeously decorated projects, and afterward, those librarians set right to work cheerily cleaning up the layers of marker caps, paper scraps, […]