Readers’ Advisory Tool Kit 2
March 25th, 2006 by Brian SmithThe overall theme: marketing books to readers. Since I’m horrible at RA and, like many librarians, am not great at marketing, this was a useful session.
Neal Wyatt
Spoke on articulating the appeal of a book to readers. “Appeal drives RA work.” The appeal may be based on a number of factors, such as pacing, characterization, setting, emotional/psychological tone, level of detail, type/genry, etc.
“You don’t have to believe that Danielle Steel and Margaret Atwood are equally engaging to a reader; you just have to pretend you do.”
At the desk, say as little as possible. Talk about the pace and tone (which tend to be really important to readers) and throw in a couple more details about plot and special features.
Georgine Olson
Spoke on “Booktalking in the Stacks.” I’ve always been a fan of actually approaching patrons in the stacks. (My tip: Never ask “Do you need help?” Much better: “Are you finding what you want?”)
Olson emphasized the low stress involved, since doing walkaround RA doesn’t feel like an obligation. “It’s one of the most fun things you can do, because you don’t have the pressure of being the expert behind the desk.”
Joyce Saricks
Spoke on book displays. “Spend your time choosing the books” rather than constructing an elaborate display. Although the display does need to look inviting.
“I don’t belive that any library doesn’t have room for a display. … You can put up two bookends and a dozen books, and you’ve got a display.”
“The best marketing tool and reference tool, hands down, is a friendly staff.”
Comment from an audience member (in response to my question about how to apply the techniques to the proverbial high school senior who doesn’t like to read, doesn’t want to read, but has to pick a 300-page book for a school assignment): Reading Rants is a great RA website for teens, especially guys.
Tags: conferences, PLA, PLA2006
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