As a librarian I firmly believe that people should read books they enjoy, regardless of genre. I've spent a lot of my time as a librarian in a youth services setting, and I'm here to tell you, more adults should try picking up a picture book. These books are full of rich storylines and engaging artwork.
Speaking to the topic of adults who read young adult books and/or graphic novels, I think it falls in line with the purpose of a library for librarians to get books in the hands of people who want to read said books. I don't think there should be any stigma on any genres people want to read. I've often thought it would be fun to create a book club for adults, but have it be one where we only read young adult materials, or even only picture books.
There are quite a few authors of young adult books where the characters of the original series have aged up into adulthood, causing librarians quite a headache when it comes to deciding where the series should live. These books and series would make for an interesting display. At my library we regularly create displays on various subjects that include books from the children's, teen and adult collections. This display is located near the circulation desk, so there's ample opportunity for something to catch the interest of a library patron, regardless of their age.
Mary,
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of an adult book club focused on picture books and such. I think it would give parents a chance to talk to librarians about their collection and the collection development policy within means. I think as a society, we have this disgusting notion that we need to grow out of childhood. However, if YA books and such keep people coming into the library, so be it. I've been told by adults say how much they loved YA because of the simplicity and the characters being more relatable than most adult fiction books.
Great Post,
Bre
I definitely agree with your point that part of a librarian's job is to "get books in the hands of people who want to read said books." It's a simple thing, one that might seem obvious, but I feel like it can easily be overlooked in favor of other duties. At our basest level, it is our job to ensure people get the information/materials they need or want. At no point is there room for judgement or gatekeeping. As long as people get what they're looking for and leave satisfied (and, ideally, eager to read), then we've fulfilled our duties. And you're absolutely right about the joys of picture books for adults! One of my favorite things is when one of my colleagues finds a new picture book and we all gather around to read it together or pass it along to someone else we think would enjoy it. A lot of the time I'm so charmed by the creativity, earnestness, clarity, and humor that fills the pages.
ReplyDeleteHi Mary! I really love your post; you make a ton of great points! I also wrote about having displays that include books for different target age groups. I think that's one of the easiest ways to normalize adults reading these books.
ReplyDeleteI LOVE the idea of a book club for picture books. I often think adults could learn so much from picture books. Not to mention that picture books often have super creative premises that you don't find in other age ranges.
You bring up so many great points and have great ideas about how to address stigmas through displays and book clubs. Full points!
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