Staff training will be held once each quarter, with an additional meeting held in early June for the Summer Reading Program. Some of the topics will include reader’s advisory for children, leveled books, early literacy training, how to “speak” to children, how to deal with “out of control” children, and intercultural awareness. Early literacy training and instructions on how to present a storytime will be held for all Youth Services Department members. Videos will be presented and guest speakers will be scheduled.
All staff will be instructed in how to encourage families to use the library. Many families, especially those new to American culture, may not realize that library services are free. In some countries, libraries require a paid membership. Families might not be aware that libraries offer services other than lending books. They might be reluctant to share their personal information, especially if they are recent immigrants or undocumented (Jalongo, 2015). Staff members, regardless of their position, will receive training in how to present the library services to all families and community members. Breakfast will be provided.
Volunteer training will be help three times a year, in January, June, and September. Volunteers will be trained in how to read with children, dialogic reading, how to help select books for children, early literacy concepts, and games to play during Reading Buddies sessions. In addition, all volunteers will be introduced to other services that the library offers for all patrons, and which staff members to direct patrons to for help. Volunteers will serve as ambassadors for all library services. Snacks will be provided.
References:
Jalongo, M. R. (2015). Literacy for all young learners. Gryphon House Inc. Kindle edition.
Ted Talks. (2017, December 12). Beyond books: A look into what public libraries really are | Tara Franzetti | TEDxYouth@RVA. [Video]. YouTube. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76WVfhVWLnE
Deb's Early Childhood Literacy Program 