So my friend posted this on Facebook and I thought I would share it because of the seminar Kelly and I did not too long ago! Its actually an awesome song, by Library Voices. Apparently they sing songs about libraries and books, and they were on the CBC. Thanks Rachel for posting!
Recently, a colleague and I created a media booktalk in order to promote The Zombie Survival Guide by Max Brooks. We used a simple point and shoot camera and Vegas Pro editing software to make this clip.
Today I visited the Masonville Public Library in London to see what kind of space they have created for their teen readers. When I eventually found the area called the “Teen Annex” (there is very little signage), I was struck by how very small it is. There are two shelves dedicated to fiction titles, a computer, and a new book display. There is also a separate shelf for teen non-fiction titles, Manga/Graphic Novels, and audio books. In the middle of this space were 2 tables and rather comfy looking chairs. Masonville is not a large branch, and they I think do very well with the space that they have. Unfortunately, because it is such a small space, the kids section is crammed right up beside the teen area so I think what was intended to be a teen-only space turned into a spillover area for the kids section. The chairs were taken up by parents and kids and there were absolutely no teens in sight. Also, the proximity to the kids section made the teen section feel as though it was merely an extension of the kids area instead of being its own designated space. Luckily, the collection looked new and well-weeded and everything on the shelf looked pretty visually pleasing. The display of new books was nice and drew attention to the newer, flashier titles that might draw in some readers.
During my visit, I tried to imagine what my former teen self might have thought about coming here. Unfortunately, the verdict was not good. I might have come in to pick up books for myself but this was definitely not a place that I would come to spend any of my free time. The fact that the teen area was crawling with kids would have been off-putting and the cramped and cluttered atmosphere didn’t make me feel like I wanted to stick around. Perhaps moving it away from the kids area would help a more unique and quieter space. I think a couple more computers might help too, since there is only one in this section and it was being used by an elderly person. Overall, I give this space a C+.
Hi everyone,
Welcome to my Blog where I will be reading a number of young adult titles as well as professional literature and commenting on them. I will also be posting reviews and other assignments for my young adult services class that I am currently taking at the University of Western Ontario. Hope you enjoy it!
