Archive for the ‘Reading @ Risk’ Tag
Circulating Book Discussion Kits
Filed under: Uncategorized | Tags: book discussions, books, libraries, literacy, NEA, New York Times, Reader's Advisory, Reading @ Risk
Leave a Comment “Can a public library proactively affect a community’s literary reading?”
Scrolling through an electronic newsletter from NoveList tonight, I came upon a reference to an interesting article about a public library that circulates book discussion kits for their patrons to use. It was a very interesting article, which I’m linking here. I’ll also post a few of my takeaways from the article.
WHAT: Johnson County (Kansas) Public Library has created 149 book discussion kits since 2004 that are available for check-out by library patrons. The kits, aptly named Book Club To Go Kits, consist of 10 paperback copies of a title that lends itself to group discussion. Kits are equipped with discussion guides and also must have alternative formats available through the library (ie. Large Print copies or audiobooks).
WHY: The kits are one aspect of JCPL’s strategic plan item that charges staff with providing convenient and personalized materials for patrons. Its an endeavor that originated in response to the Reading at Risk Report compiled by the National Endowment for the Arts in 2004. One of the study findings is that individuals with a higher income are more inclined to literary reading. The Book Club To Go Kits offer convenience and, more importantly, attempt to remove the monetary barrier that sometimes may prevent individuals from participating in book clubs.
GOALS/RELATED RESEARCH: The article quotes Andrew Solomon of the New York Times regarding literary reading. According to Solomon, “literary reading is an entry into dialogue” and has marked differences and results compared with spending the same amount of time reading electronic formats. In its study, the NEA identifies a parallel between reading and civic participation. With its programs and services, JCPL embraces the research and findings of Solomon and the Reading at Risk study, and is attempting the lofty goals of making reading a social rather than solitary activity, encouraging people to want to read more, and increasing library and community involvement.
