Images of libraries with silent rooms filled with shelves of dusty books are unlikely to engage the minds of children. Use picture books to create a more positive image of libraries and the importance of books.
The Library by Sarah Stewart
Chosen by the New York Times as one of the ten outstanding children’s books of 1995, The Library (Frances Lincoln, 1995) tells the story of Elizabeth Brown, who loves to read. Elizabeth eventually runs out of room in her home to store her many books, so she donates her book collection to the town, opening a free community library.
While Elizabeth Brown is a stereotypical shy bookworm, this book with its lovely illustrations by David Small and rhyming story give a very gentle, warm image of the joys of reading.
Wild About Books by Judy Sierra
The reading adventures in Wild About Books (Frances Lincoln, 2004) begin when Molly McGrew drives her bookmobile to the zoo by mistake. She manages to find books to suit everyone, including water proof versions of Harry Potter for the otters and Peter Pan for the crocodiles. Eventually, the animals are inspired to write their own books and they build a branch library at the zoo.
With illustrations by Marc Brown and fun rhyming text, Wild About Books encourages children to explore a variety of books and perhaps try out their own writing skills.
Prue Theroux, The Cool Librarian by Gillian Rubinstein
Prue Theroux, The Cool Librarian (Random House, 2001) works in the library at Numbat Gully Primary School. She can find a book to interest anyone and makes the library the coolest place in school.
When Prue Theroux get the flu, the children must deal with Mr Boycott, who turns the library into a quiet, regimented place that no-one enjoys. They can’t wait for her to return.
Prue Theroux encourages children to see books and reading as exciting and interesting.
The Librarian of Basra by Jeanette Winter
For slightly older readers, The Librarian of Basra (Harcourt Books, 2005) is a picture book telling the true story of Alia Muhammad Baker, a librarian in Basra, Iraq.
When her town is threatened by war, Alia begins to hide library books in her own home and the homes of friends. She saves 21,000 books before the library is burned to the ground.
The Librarian of Basra is an encouraging story about one woman’s desire to preserve her country’s written heritage. It offers an opportunity to discuss the impact of war with children focusing on the bravery of everyday people in times of trouble.
The Library Book by Maureen Sawa
For confident readers, The Library Book: The History of Libraries from Camels to Computers (Tundra Books, 2006) offers an overview of how information and knowledge has been stored and shared by human society.
The Library Book covers the variety of forms used to record ideas and information, beginning with scrolls and the first library formed by the Sumerians in Mesopotamia and concluding with information about digital libraries such as The African Digital Library and the Dunhuang Project.
The Library Book focuses on some of the more interesting and unusual aspects of the history of books and libraries, engaging readers with brief snapshots of history and an informal writing style. It includes a selection of internet links for major international libraries.
Establishing a Positive Image of Libraries for Children
Modern libraries are generally approachable and interesting places within a community. Many promote local activities and interest groups in addition to offering an ongoing source of reading material across a variety of topics.
Establishing a familiarity with libraries at a young age opens up numerous opportunities for learning in future years.
Related article: Use Picture Books to Start Discussions with Children
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