Lots of people think children’s librarians do two things all day: 1) read all day and 2) say “shhhh” to people. In reality, they do so much more.
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Here are 5 things children’s librarians do every day for their jobs:
5. Children’s librarians plan programs and classes for the kids and families that visit their libraries.
These programs vary from library to library and librarian to librarian.
4. Children’s librarians take care of the library’s collection.
- Research new books to buy
- Purchase new books and replace books that are lost or damaged
- Get rid of old books or books that are not checked-out by patrons
- Decide where each new book goes in the library
- Take inventory of the books the library has in its collection.
- Purchase items for check-out; items include LeapPads, tablets, kites, STEM sets, video game systems, etc.
3. Children’s librarians work the reference desk.
At this public desk, patrons can ask librarians any questions they have. Librarians spend time helping kids on the computers, helping families find fun classes to attend, locating specific books for patrons, etc.
2. Children’s librarians work closely with local schools.
- Visit schools to tell the students about how awesome the library is and about the different resources offered there
- Plan field trips and storytimes for visiting classes.
- Communicate information with the media center directors about donating books and planning special events; keep media center directors updated on different resources offered for students and teachers
1. Children’s librarians are readers advisory experts.
Readers advisory is helping a patron find a book to read that he/she will enjoy. Patrons sometimes say they need book suggestions for third graders, or non-fiction books their seventh grader will like, or books for learning to read, or picture books about athletes, or fun series for girls, etc. Librarians have to take the patrons’ requests and then advise them on books that fit their needs.
For example, I would suggest the BOB book series for patrons looking for books on learning to read. I would suggest the Clementine series or the Junie B. Jones series for fun series for girls. Children’s librarians don’t need to have read every single book in the library. But, they need to be knowledgeable about great resources for finding books.
These are just some of the tasks children’s librarians handle on a day-to-day basis. If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a librarian, please contact Jaime at info@learnplayread.com. She would be happy to talk more with you about the education required and other job details!