The Family-centered Library Handbook

Literacy, the foundation for every child's school success, begins at home. This new book will give your children's services staff and everyone involved in community outreach terrific tips and techniques for engaging and involving parents and caregivers in the key work of helping children on the path to literacy. Topics include: using library resources to support the role of parents and caregivers in children's growth and development; helping children's librarians interact successfully with families; implementing effective communication strategies, appropriate services and useful spaces for adult/child participation; how to attract and engage new and diverse families; and how to leverage your family-centered approach to build community visibility. This book serves as the primary text for Middle Country Public Library's popular Family Place Training Institute and is written by a team of librarians who have achieved remarkable success with their community's families.