2.1 Demonstrate an understanding of reader development

Table of Contents

1. Objectives of reader development
2. Reading promotions
3. Genre
   1. Fiction genres
   2. Arranging collections by genre
4. Literacy initiatives
5. Reader-centred stock selection

Arranging collections by genre

Many libraries organise part of their fiction collection by genre and the identifying spine labels for the different genres (eg: a gun for crime) will be familiar to many library clients. Libraries do this to help clients who habitually read, for example, crime novels. This means that clients regularly go to the same area of stock for their reading material and can miss out on wider reading choices.

Some might argue that arranging the non-fiction stock using a classification system removes the need for genres in this area of the library. However, many libraries use genres for some of their non-fiction stock. Common examples are biographies and travel books.

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Disadvantages of using genres Can you think of any disadvantages of the use of genres as a method of arranging fiction or non-fiction stock in a library? For the client who is completely focused on one genre it is undoubtedly helpful if they find all the books in this genre in one place in the library. But the disadvantage of this approach is that it can discourage more adventurous reading. The client may never look beyond the few shelves which contain the selection of "his/her books", even though other books elsewhere could be of interest to them. While some clients will always limit their reading choices to a particular genre, others can, with support, can be led to enjoy reading across a wider range.

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