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Engaging babies in the library : putting theory into practice
2016
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School Library Journal Review
Having read the research on the development of children's brains, visited museums with child-centered exhibits, consulted parents and librarians, and, best of all, observed baby and caregiver behavior in the library setting, Knoll has produced a volume full of ideas for enhancing the comfort of caregivers and offering learning opportunities for the tiniest library users. Recommendations are always cognizant of babies' developmental needs, such as tummy time and a trusting environment, as well as caregivers' social, informational, and practical needs. Suggestions are divided into sections called "Baby Steps" (inexpensive fixes to extant programs and facilities, such as exhibiting art at babies' and toddlers' eye levels and providing in-house babysitters) and "Big Steps" (suggestions for more extensive improvements, such as establishing an area for nursing mothers and family-friendly restrooms and staffing improvements such as the hiring of a full-time librarian with child development credentials). For every "Big Step," there is a more practical "Baby Step." Chapters are enhanced with true stories of the experiences of young families in the library. The book ends with a passionate plea for administrators to advocate for fair funding for the literacy programs they champion. Included are an appendix with International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) guidelines for library services to babies and toddlers and a checklist for assessing the individual library. VERDICT A must-read for librarians and administrators who advocate for early literacy.-Jackie Gropman, formerly at Chantilly Regional Library, VA © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
Libraries are evolving in their interest and action regarding providing pre- and early literacy services to the library community. Historically, these patrons were not necessarily welcomed in the library. Now, libraries are shifting to the idea of providing learning environments for our youngest users. To embrace this, libraries must reevaluate library philosophy, space, and service. For libraries to fully adopt this cultural shift, they need to create space for young users that does not seclude them while allowing for the activities and noise level they bring. Knoll took inspiration from nonlibrary venues to come up with creative solutions to space issues, safety, and ease of use. This text addresses the many facets of dealing with the very young, such as emotional needs, social interactions, and behavior. Each section contains Big Steps and Baby Steps that libraries can use when making a change. This is a meaningful resource for libraries that are looking to increase meaningful service to infants and toddlers.--Ranucci, Blaire Copyright 2016 Booklist
Summary

Public libraries across the nation continue to transform themselves into learning centers for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. There are many resources available to help librarians create baby-friendly play spaces and enhanced storytimes, but until now there has been gap in the literature addressing the developmental needs and changing behaviors of babies and toddlers. Parents and caregivers can also present unique service challenges. Focusing squarely on the how of providing quality library service to babies and families, Knoll's new book provides sensible, sensitive advice on meeting their physical, emotional, intellectual, and social needs. Geared towards helping public libraries foster healthy growth and development for their littlest patrons, this book:

explores multiple aspects in the developing life of a baby, discussing physical needs, emotional expressions, intellectual pursuits, and social development; highlights real-life examples from public libraries that relate to how these developmental processes present themselves while babies and families interact in the library; presents Baby Steps for each topical area, providing service tips and suggestions that can be easily or inexpensively put into practice; offers Big Steps, conversational points that invite librarians to think creatively about further investment, support, funding, and collaborative efforts; and includes carefully selected research findings and other information that can be used for planning, policymaking, and advocacy.

With Knoll's guidance, children's librarians will be informed and inspired to rise to the challenge of providing quality service to babies, toddlers, and care providers.

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