If I had to choose one mantra for a new children’s library staff member, it would be: “There’s a book for every reader.” Some children walk out of the library with a stack piled high to their forehead, straining to carry their haul, while their grown up reminds them that they’ll be back next week. Others stand in the stacks with a librarian reluctantly looking over the books in their hand wishing they could be somewhere else. Both are readers! The biggest difference is the first readers has experienced the spark of joy that comes from a book. The second hasn’t- yet.
If you’re hoping to give a child that spark, the flint- per say- is free choice. Allowing a child to branch out and read books that one wouldn’t consider “educational” because of its content and format opens up the opportunity for the reader to discover the magic of the written (or spoken) word. In fact, free choice in reading increases engagement with the text, helps develop stronger fluency, comprehension and vocabulary, and as their reading skills improve they are more likely to comprehend other classroom assignments and materials. Free choice even helps readers get excited to share their latest book with their friends!
But what happens when the reader just doesn’t want to choose something to read? We give them resources, of course! Sometimes that means linking a book to something they already enjoy, like books for younger or older kids based off of shows they enjoy. If your child is a gamer, there are plenty of options for all reading levels that focus on video games! It may be a matter of determining the type of reader you’re working with- whether through books or another form of media like shows, movies or games. Curious Detectives are kids who are curious about the world and want to dig deeper- they may prefer non-fiction or mysteries. Adventure time readers love an adrenaline rush- constant action and adventure is what gets these readers excited! Serial readers prefer a story that goes on for several books. They like to get invested in a character or storyline. Class Clowns are the life of the party and love their books to be as funny as possible! The Connector likes to get personal and connect with characters and stories on an emotional level. Magic, Dragons and Swords readers love a good sense of fantasy and love being transported to other realms- world-building is important to these readers!
Some readers need the freedom to choose their format. Traditional print books aren’t the only option! Graphic novels allow readers to connect the story to the pictures, giving more context to the words on the page and better increasing their understanding of the material. Auditory learners may prefer audiobooks (my favorite format) because it gives them the freedom to move while they take in the story, or simply because they process spoken language better than written. Pairing a print and audiobook could get their brains firing with both engines! By making these materials accessible your reader may find they enjoy stories, just told in untraditional ways!
Whether selecting the format, genre, or topic, your reader deserves the chance to fall in love with stories! Books are intimately linked to success later in life and allowing your reader the chance to determine the type they enjoy most gives them the keys to a lifelong love of learning. Let’s explore the opportunities together!
- Heather Lozano, Teen Associate, South Broken Arrow Library