Children’s Library:
In every country, a separate library is built for them in a part of the public library instead of keeping the children’s section adjacent to the library. In the selection of books in the children’s library, if necessary, the cooperation and help of class teachers, guardians, child specialists, and prominent people of the area who have knowledge about books can be taken. Children can also express their opinions. They can give an idea about what kind of books they like. Children’s libraries should be built appropriately and with care. Children should also be encouraged to come to the library, and for this, the children’s library should be beautifully decorated. Arrangements should be made to have low shelves of books suitable for them, tables, chairs, various types of toys, and sports equipment. Another notable aspect of children’s libraries is the story-telling session. On certain days, the librarian, prominent children’s writers, and guardians also participate in it. In many schools in developed countries, the children’s section of the nearby public library is used instead of a separate school library.
Children will also grow up one day – so the collection should be arranged in such a way that they can be kept in mind for their future. For this, various types of educational books are kept as alternatives to the curriculum of the nearby school. The children’s section of the public library acts as the existing library of many schools. For this, the school teacher and the children’s librarian of the public library should jointly select books. In the children’s section of the nearby public library, children have to go to the library with their teachers on specific days. The librarian of the children’s library makes various types of entertainment arrangements to attract children to use the library.
The librarian for the children’s library or department is not specially trained; he is known as the children’s librarian. He conducts’storytelling sessions for children and teaches children how to use the library. A friendly relationship is developed with the librarian. Children’s libraries are beautifully decorated to entertain children. Not only books are available for children, but also cassettes of children’s storybooks, video cassettes, books, and other toys made suitable for children in developed countries. Children can also take them home. In addition, the children’s librarian teaches children about discipline, how to select books in the library, how to take care of books, and how to keep the library clean. They develop a friendly relationship with the librarian. They are invited to the library through various events so that they come to it again and again. Sometimes various competitions are organized. In a word, the main role of the children’s library is to create future library readers, to use the library, and to create an attractive attraction towards knowledge.
Children’s Library Book Selection:
The main and important part of every public library is the “Children’s Department.”. Although childhood is a very short period of time, it plays an important role in shaping the character of the child during this period. The reading habit that they develop during childhood expands later. For this, it is necessary to create interest in them at an early age. The selection policy is the same for both the children’s library and the children’s section of the public library. “Catch them young”—this” should be the main policy. What is taught at a young age lasts a lifetime. Books become their companions. Therefore, the selection of books for the children’s section is as important as necessary.
Selection principles:
1. Selections should be thoughtfully tailored to each stage of life, ensuring that the collection resonates with the unique tastes and interests of various age groups;
2. For our youngest readers, a vibrant array of colorful rhyme books will delight their curious minds, alongside enchanting fiction, whimsical fairy tales, and playful rhyme collections designed just for them.
3. The main goal of the collection should be the mental development of children. The provision of healthy entertainment is another important aspect. In addition, the presentation of correct information in a simple and straightforward manner should be given importance.
4. Books written specifically for children and the best books on all subjects suitable for children should be included;
5. The collection must be rich with imaginative fiction, captivating drama, and evocative poetry that ignite the creativity and wonder of children’s minds, inviting them to explore new worlds and ideas.
6. Selection should be made very carefully so that it sheds light on the beautiful and true aspects of life. The correct presentation of information should be considered seriously.
7. According to information scientists, the best books for children are those that “present the subject in the form of stories, which children can easily understand.”
8. Educational books, along with educational materials, should be given space in the collection of adventure stories, funny stories, books on various hobbies, books related to sports, etc. 9. The collection of children’s libraries should be developed in such a way that it creates mental development and interest in education from character building in children;
10. A vibrant assortment of posters, whimsical cartoon books, and accessible translations of timeless foreign classics should grace the collection. Additionally, engaging travelogues, insightful biographies, captivating picture books, and thought-provoking moral stories should also be included to create a diverse and enriching selection.
11. Each book should boast exquisite binding, crisp printing, and exceptional quality. The covers should not only be visually appealing but also draw the eye with their striking designs, inviting readers to explore the worlds within.
The book selection in the public library’s children’s section plays a crucial role in fostering a love for reading, offering a diverse range of stories that cater to different interests and reading levels. By providing access to both classic and contemporary literature, the library helps children develop literacy skills, creativity, and critical thinking. A well-curated collection ensures that young readers can explore new ideas, cultures, and perspectives, making the library an essential resource for lifelong learning.
