The three ways for my library to promote its fiction collection:
1. Programs tying fiction books to pop culture.
It is important that the library provides relevant programs, and one way they can do that is to keep an eye on what's popular in the community. The next Star Wars is coming out soon? Why not do a Star Wars themed program, and promote the Science Fiction collection? Most public libraries have a sizable collection of Star Wars books, and there are plenty of other science fiction books that have similar themes.
2. Provide Reader's Advisory lists physically and online.
Most (not all, but most) people have a favorite book, even if they do not read often. If the library provides lists of recommendations for people who like a particular popular book, these people can easily find new books to read. The Hunger Games is a relatively new favorite, so providing lists of recommended books based on that interest, or just a list of Dystopian books would be very beneficial.
3. Post often to Facebook and Twitter.
People love to impulsively follow Facebook and Twitter pages. It requires little commitment and little thought. However, as a result, the library can send out posts that will be seen by many people easily. book reviews, recommendations, and programs can be posted. Images are a powerful tool. Put the cover of Harry Potter on a post about fantasy books in the library, and people will instantly pay attention.
Sunday, April 24, 2016
Sunday, April 17, 2016
Week 14 Prompt Response
If I were responsible for deciding whether or not to separate GBLTQ and African American literature from the rest of the collection or not, I would choose to keep them integrated into the rest of the collection.
My first reason for this is that these two categories are not genres, they are themes. Most library collections will divide their fiction collections by genre, such as Mysteries, Science Fiction, etc. They may also divide the collection by format (Graphic Novels, Large Print) or reading level (Adult, Young Adult, Youth). Further dividing the collection into themes would create confusion for librarians and patrons (Where would a Mystery GLBTQ book be located?), and would create too many different sections. Themes are also a very expansive category type, as I could continue to list themes for hours.
My second reason would be that it is discriminatory. Of course, the intentions of dividing the collection are not bad, but the end result may be bad. While the intention is very different, separating the collection like this may bring up connotations of discrimination in public places (Such as a "White" section and a "Black" section). Again, this is not the intention, but the end result can be harmful, even if the intention was good.
The final reason for keeping them integrated would be to promote a wide experience of themes to patrons within their preferred genres. A person who enjoys Science Fiction may read several, several books within the genre. While they are reading one genre, they will likely encounter a myriad of themes, which will broaden their interests and perspective, all while staying within their beloved Sci-Fi section.
My first reason for this is that these two categories are not genres, they are themes. Most library collections will divide their fiction collections by genre, such as Mysteries, Science Fiction, etc. They may also divide the collection by format (Graphic Novels, Large Print) or reading level (Adult, Young Adult, Youth). Further dividing the collection into themes would create confusion for librarians and patrons (Where would a Mystery GLBTQ book be located?), and would create too many different sections. Themes are also a very expansive category type, as I could continue to list themes for hours.
My second reason would be that it is discriminatory. Of course, the intentions of dividing the collection are not bad, but the end result may be bad. While the intention is very different, separating the collection like this may bring up connotations of discrimination in public places (Such as a "White" section and a "Black" section). Again, this is not the intention, but the end result can be harmful, even if the intention was good.
The final reason for keeping them integrated would be to promote a wide experience of themes to patrons within their preferred genres. A person who enjoys Science Fiction may read several, several books within the genre. While they are reading one genre, they will likely encounter a myriad of themes, which will broaden their interests and perspective, all while staying within their beloved Sci-Fi section.
Sunday, April 10, 2016
Week 13 Prompt Response
As someone who mostly reads comics, manga, and young adult novels, the topic of young adult novels remaining accessible to adults is important to me. While there are many adults who read young adult novels, many adults view these novels as being for teens only. It is interesting that many people have this opinion, and it is important to understand why they think this way. What are the differences between young adult and adult novels? In my experience, the difference is actually very slight.
Genres: Both adult and young adult books can be written in any genre category.
Length: Both adult and young adult books can range from novellas to epics.
Reading level: This is debatable. While there are young adult books written for a lower reading level, there are also many others that have the same complexity of vocabulary as adult novels.
This leaves "content" to be the last category for which I will compare adult and young adult books. There are differences in content, and I feel that the biggest differences are:
Adult novels can be "R-rated" while young adult novels tend to remain "PG-13"
Young adult novels tend to feature younger protagonists.
These are the two ways in which these two groups of books differ the most. Now, are these differences enough justification to tell an adult that they should not read young adult books? In my opinion, no. Adults should not limit themselves to R-rated movies, and they should not limit themselves to books that contain adult subject matter either. It is fine to enjoy these books or movies, but it is unreasonable to avoid a story that does not have sex, drugs, and gore. This leaves the difference in the ages of protagonists. The argument against young adult novels would be "Readers should read books that have a relatable protagonist in the eyes of the reader". While some readers may enjoy stories which have a protagonist that is similar to themselves, other readers may actually enjoy seeing a story through a different perspective. It is a wonderful challenge to place yourself in the position of someone that has a very different background than your own.
If adults want to read young adult novels, they should be free to do so without judgment. Young adult books contain fantastic stories that exercise the imagination, perhaps even more so than adult novels. As librarians, we should keep in mind that young adult novels are a valid option for adults looking to find a new story to read. There are wonderful young adult options available in any genre.
Genres: Both adult and young adult books can be written in any genre category.
Length: Both adult and young adult books can range from novellas to epics.
Reading level: This is debatable. While there are young adult books written for a lower reading level, there are also many others that have the same complexity of vocabulary as adult novels.
This leaves "content" to be the last category for which I will compare adult and young adult books. There are differences in content, and I feel that the biggest differences are:
Adult novels can be "R-rated" while young adult novels tend to remain "PG-13"
Young adult novels tend to feature younger protagonists.
These are the two ways in which these two groups of books differ the most. Now, are these differences enough justification to tell an adult that they should not read young adult books? In my opinion, no. Adults should not limit themselves to R-rated movies, and they should not limit themselves to books that contain adult subject matter either. It is fine to enjoy these books or movies, but it is unreasonable to avoid a story that does not have sex, drugs, and gore. This leaves the difference in the ages of protagonists. The argument against young adult novels would be "Readers should read books that have a relatable protagonist in the eyes of the reader". While some readers may enjoy stories which have a protagonist that is similar to themselves, other readers may actually enjoy seeing a story through a different perspective. It is a wonderful challenge to place yourself in the position of someone that has a very different background than your own.
If adults want to read young adult novels, they should be free to do so without judgment. Young adult books contain fantastic stories that exercise the imagination, perhaps even more so than adult novels. As librarians, we should keep in mind that young adult novels are a valid option for adults looking to find a new story to read. There are wonderful young adult options available in any genre.
Young Adult Annotation: The Devil Is a Part-Timer!
Author: Satoshi Wagahara
Title: The Devil Is a Part-Timer! (Volume 1)
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Comedy
Publication Date:April 21, 2015 (English) February 10, 2011 (Japanese)
Number of Pages:240
Geographic Setting: Tokyo, Japan
Time period: Present Day
Series: The Devil Is a Part-Timer! Series
Plot Summary: The Devil Is a Part-Timer! begins in the fantasy land of Ente Isla, where angels and the church are at war with the Devil and his legions of demons. In a climactic battle, the Devil and his top general are banished to another realm: Earth. Trapped in Tokyo without his powers, the Devil seeks to find a way home. However, this is not as easy, and bills need paid. Under the guise of Sadao Maou, the Devil finds work at "MgRonald's", where he strives to climb the corporate ladder to regain the power he once had. Through various hilarious and strange adventures including magic, knights, and hamburgers, the Devil balances his new life on Earth with his desire to return to his kingdom.
Appeal: The Devil Is a Part-Timer! is ludicrous, unique, and incredibly strange, which can be a very enjoyable experience for many. The story hinges on the absurd, while including some aspects of fantasy and adventure. Fans of anime and manga may appreciate the cultural references and setting of the story as well.
Three terms that describe this book: Ridiculous, Hilarious, and Fun
Similar authors and works:
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya by Nagaru Tanigawa
Another comedic young adult novel series, the Haruhi Suzumiya series of books features a setting in modern Japan, featuring characters with special powers living secret lives as normal people. This series also has zany comedy, but with less focus on action, and more focus on mystery.
Kizumonogatari: Wound Tale by Nisioisin
While still technically a young adult book, Kizumonogatari is a more mature story, with a more serious story about mystical characters in Japan. Vampires, ghosts, and spirits collide in a serious series that focuses on action, mystery, puzzles, and word play.
Sword Art Online by Reki Kawahara
This is a predominantly action-oriented series that takes place in a fantasy realm. If you like the fantasy elements of The Devil Is a Part-Timer!, this is worth reading. The characters are trapped in a fantasy multiplayer online game, where the villain has prevented them from logging out.
Saturday, April 2, 2016
Week 12 Prompt Response: Reader's Advisory Matrix
The Twelve Caesars by Matthew Dennison
1. Where is the book on the narrative continuum?
Highly narrative (reads like fiction)
2. What is the subject of the book?
It is about the first twelve emperors of Rome, starting with Julius and ending with Domitian. It details their lives before and during each of their reigns, and guides the reader through the royal family tree.
3.What type of book is it?
A historical collective biography
4. Articulate Appeal
What is the pacing of the book? Leisurely paced, not fast, but not slow.
Describe the characters of the book? The emperors range from flawed heroes to pitiable villains. None of them are completely bad or good, but some are certainly better than others.
How does the story feel? The story is a dramatic tale of war, strife, and politics, and how those involved handle the situations.
What is the intent of the author? The intent of the author is to tell the history of the emperors from a more personal and entertaining perspective.
What is the focus of the story? The story focuses on the emperors themselves, rather than the Empire as a whole.
Does the language matter? Yes.
Is the setting important and well-described? Yes, the setting is very important, as it connects each the emperors in a common situation. It is well-described, and brought to life in the mind of the reader through imagery.
Are there details, and if so, of what? Yes, there are plenty of details pertaining the the choices and situations that the emperors are involved in.
Are there sufficient charts and other graphic materials? Are they useful and clear? There are graphics provided as needed, as well as a very useful family tree in the front of the book. This family tree is valuable when the reader is trying to understand the complex royal family.
Does the book stress moments of learning, understanding, or experience? Yes, the book show the consequences of the actions of the emperors, and whether or not they learned from those experiences. The author also shows when emperors learned (or didn't learn) from the mistakes of past emperors.
5. Why would the reader enjoy this book (rank appeal)?
1. Dramatic
2. Informative
3. Personal
1. Where is the book on the narrative continuum?
Highly narrative (reads like fiction)
2. What is the subject of the book?
It is about the first twelve emperors of Rome, starting with Julius and ending with Domitian. It details their lives before and during each of their reigns, and guides the reader through the royal family tree.
3.What type of book is it?
A historical collective biography
4. Articulate Appeal
What is the pacing of the book? Leisurely paced, not fast, but not slow.
Describe the characters of the book? The emperors range from flawed heroes to pitiable villains. None of them are completely bad or good, but some are certainly better than others.
How does the story feel? The story is a dramatic tale of war, strife, and politics, and how those involved handle the situations.
What is the intent of the author? The intent of the author is to tell the history of the emperors from a more personal and entertaining perspective.
What is the focus of the story? The story focuses on the emperors themselves, rather than the Empire as a whole.
Does the language matter? Yes.
Is the setting important and well-described? Yes, the setting is very important, as it connects each the emperors in a common situation. It is well-described, and brought to life in the mind of the reader through imagery.
Are there details, and if so, of what? Yes, there are plenty of details pertaining the the choices and situations that the emperors are involved in.
Are there sufficient charts and other graphic materials? Are they useful and clear? There are graphics provided as needed, as well as a very useful family tree in the front of the book. This family tree is valuable when the reader is trying to understand the complex royal family.
Does the book stress moments of learning, understanding, or experience? Yes, the book show the consequences of the actions of the emperors, and whether or not they learned from those experiences. The author also shows when emperors learned (or didn't learn) from the mistakes of past emperors.
5. Why would the reader enjoy this book (rank appeal)?
1. Dramatic
2. Informative
3. Personal
Non-Fiction Annotation - The Twelve Caesars: The Dramatic Lives of the Emperors of Rome
Author: Matthew Dennison
Title: The Twelve Caesars: The Dramatic Lives of the Emperors of Rome
Genre: Collective Biography
Publication Date: August 19, 2014
Number of Pages: 400
Geographic Setting: Roman Empire
Time Period: 100 BCE to 96 CE
Summary: Matthew Dennison takes the reader on a trip through the early history of the Roman Empire, with a focus on the lives of the Caesars themselves. Going in chronological order, Dennison tells the reader how each emperor came to power, what they did before and during their reign, and all of the drama surrounding their lives. There is a distinct focus on family issues, as affairs and family in-fighting are abundant in the royal family tree. The book provides a personal analysis of the Caesars, portraying them as actual people, and not legends.
Appeal: The Twelve Caesars is well-written, with a historical summary of events that plays out like a novel. The author doesn't just give the historical facts, he goes into the personal lives of the emperors to show why they did what they did, and how they are more human than we make them seem today.
Three terms that describe this book: Entertaining, Personal, Dramatic
Similar authors and works:
Imperium: A Novel of Ancient Rome by Robert Harris
This is a fictional novel that takes place in the time of the Roman Empire. It details the life of Marcus Cicero, and his interactions with other historical figures, including the emperors. For experts on Roman history who want something completely new, this provides a new experience set in the same familiar setting. First book of the Cicero series.
Constantine: Unconquered Emperor, Christian Victor by Paul Stephenson
This book details the history of Emperor Constantine, who ruled about 200 years after the events told in The Twelve Caesars. This provides more Roman history, with a focus on the ruler, without retelling the same history found in The Twelve Caesars.
The American President: From Teddy Roosevelt to Bill Clinton by William E. Leuchtenburg
This book offers a similar layout that is provided in The Twelve Caesars, but with a more familiar context for American readers. It is a collective biography, detailing the lives of the American presidents chronologically, in a similar way to how Dennison told the lives of the Roman emperors.
For more information on the history covered in The Twelve Caesars:
Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy
Chronicle of the Roman Emperors: The Reign-by-Reign Record of the Rulers of Imperial Rome by Christopher Scarre
Julius Caesar by Phillip Freeman
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