Importance of Reader Development for Younger Clients
The huge explosion in publishing means that readers are faced with a large range of reading choices. Nowadays children's books are of a high quality and there is greater variety than ever before. Starting out from early years, there are attractive fiction and non-fiction items available in different formats. The quality of presentation, illustration and content is very high.
Some books are also available in dual language editions. The sixth book in the Harry Potter series was the first to be simultaneously published in standard print, Braille and large print, recognising that a variety of needs must be met.
Teenage fiction has developed with new writers and Jacqueline Wilson is, according to Public Lending Right data from 2004, the most borrowed author from the UK's public libraries. This is the first time a non-adult author has topped the list.
Graphic novels are an increasingly popular genre, encouraging a love of books whilst offering text-light content.
Younger clients can feel totally overwhelmed and need to develop skills in making reading choices.
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Observe some younger clients as they make their selection. Note down how they go about making their choice and think about whether they go direct to a shelf for a particular author, browse, use reading lists or the Internet, ask an adult or friend, or go to the catalogue. Once they find a book, you can ask them how they came to make their selection. |
This activity may demonstrate how some younger clients can become stuck in reading ruts. Reader development techniques can open up wider reading choices for younger clients, introduce new genres and authors and increase their reading enjoyment.
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