A couple months ago, I wrote a post about performative allyship as it relates to storytime—specifically, my own storytimes. I conducted a diversity audit of the books I used during storytimes at my branch and realized that I was failing as an ally and social justice advocate. I decided to make a change and resolved “to read at least one book featuring characters of color or another marginalized identity in every storytime I lead.”
Happy August—AKA Eclipse Month here in Oregon and elsewhere. Surely you’ve heard by now (and maybe even purchased a pair or two of eclipse glasses) but on August 21 the moon’s shadow is passing through the continental US for the first time in 40 years. There are also some really exciting books passing through the continental US this month, including The Bernie Sanders Guide to Political Revolution. Read on and share your must-reads in the comments!
A year ago, I left my AmeriCorps position at an inclusive preschool and child development center for my first true librarian gig. My time with AmeriCorps was one of the most rewarding, confusing, challenging, and life-changing years in my life. For a moment, I thought I would ditch librarianship altogether to become a preschool teacher. Instead, my experiences kindled the special passion I have for early literacy in my library work.
Continue reading “What I Learned From My Year in Early Intervention”
When I first found out about stuffed animal sleepover programs in my children’s services class in grad school, I made it my mission to host one. This program plan is from September 2016, when I finally had an opportunity to complete that mission. Due to the program’s overwhelming popularity, we’re hosting it again this September. Another staff member will be taking the reins this year—which is awesome because literally every librarian deserves to experience the warm fuzzies this program brings.
I’m a little bit obsessed with board books these days. Maybe it’s because, as Betsy Bird claims, the board book is on the rise. Board books are so brilliant, and there’s such a narrow window to share them before children move on to bigger, longer books. I also think I’m experiencing a little bit of baby fever since both my brothers have children now… Speaking of which, it’s my newest niece’s birthday this month—she’s one!
It feels like it has been ages since I’ve posted one of these roundups. I’ll admit I didn’t spend as much time at ALA previewing titles as I did attending sessions. And I’ve been really distracted by the recent news that a new Maurice Sendak picture book was discovered and will be released next year. Fall 2018 can’t come soon enough… So, tell me, what are YOU excited about this month?
For more July releases, check out PW’s on-sale calendar. Continue reading “TBR Pile: July 2017”
Even though I broke my suitcase and got lost way more times than I’d like to admit, I made it safely back to Eugene! Last weekend was full of so many surprises—including some hard truths. Rather than delve too deeply into it all, I’m going to suggest that you take a look at my and other contributors’ guest posts on the ALSC Blog. There was so much coverage of the conference that you’ll almost feel like you were there.
