There are usually three kinds of resources in the children's section of American libraries: books, multimedia resources and toys. Because the resources in the children's area have surpassed the traditional books and extended to multimedia resources, educational games, educational toys and so on. Their functions also extend from reading to a wider field of education. The children's department of American libraries undertakes some children's educational functions by providing rich educational resources, organizing reading activities, collecting educational information, and cooperating closely with the outside world, which is of great significance to promoting the balance of educational resources.
All kinds of reading materials make children love reading.
The main function of public library is to provide books resources and reading services for children. Because most preschool children can't read, the main body of books is picture books, which involve various subjects that children are interested in, including astronomy, geography, animals, plants, history and culture. Books are usually classified by year and sorted by initials of title or author's name. Prominent, newly-put or featured books will be put up so that children can find them easily. Larger or thicker books are displayed on a separate dedicated bookshelf for children to read. In addition, the unified bookshelf is difficult for children to identify. Many libraries will put different plush toys on different shelves, and children will distinguish the shelves by the big and memorable characters of the plush toys.
In addition to sorting books according to common classifications, in order to save time for children and parents to find and choose books, the library will also package books according to some specific themes, such as bedtime stories, Harry Potter themes, friends themes, outdoor adventure themes, family parenting guidance themes and so on. , thus providing convenience for children to fully learn specific topics.
The children's area provides rich reading space and facilities, comfortable carpets or tents, tables, chairs or sofas that match the height of children, for children to read at any time. Some libraries have story rooms specially designed for children and parents to read. In addition to reading independently, children can also regularly participate in story time led by librarians.
The developmental characteristics of children determine that "learning by doing" and "learning by playing" are appropriate and effective learning methods. When reading extends outward, it will naturally involve some games and educational activities. After reading a vivid story, children will want to act it out, which involves role-playing games. The dolls and small stage provided by the library have become an extension of children's reading. Reading science and technology books often requires tools, and the kits provided by the library include magnifying glasses and telescopes. Other common toys include puzzles, building blocks, painting and coloring tools, handmade materials, and "play house" toys, all of which have corresponding educational significance.
Children are the center of environmental creation.
The environment construction of children's area in American libraries is generally "child-centered", which is both interesting and instructive. The main elements of environmental layout are animals, plants, cartoon characters and classic images in picture books. The common ones are library lion, Dr. Seuss, the country of beasts, Peter rabbit and so on. The wall and top surface are generally decorated by hand, which is not only in line with children's aesthetics and interests, but also very practical and can be updated as needed. For example, 20 19 is the 50th anniversary of human landing on the moon, and most libraries have designed decorations related to this theme.
Attention should be paid to involving children in the creation of environment. Some libraries decorate the walls with children's paintings, or post a large number of children's photos on the walls. The creation of the environment can also reflect education, such as posting tips on bookshelves or toy areas, "Keeping tidy is a good habit", "Dollhouse games can cultivate children's empathy" and "books are wealth, and reading is the key".
The relationship between the library and the natural environment is also worth mentioning. Many libraries use large glass windows to borrow scenery, and put tables and chairs, sofas or carpets in the windows, so that children can feel as if they are in nature when reading and playing. Some libraries also have outdoor reading gardens connected with children's areas, where tables, chairs, swings and outdoor musical instruments are placed for children to read and relax.
Books are static, and multimedia can turn static into dynamic, which can be used as a modern form of books. Multimedia resources usually include movies, CDs, audio books, picture books, auxiliary videos and music. Compared with traditional books, multimedia forms increase the interest in reading and learning. Some libraries also include video games suitable for children and install them on special children's computers for them to explore and use. Broadly speaking, these games can be called educational games. With the rapid development of educational information technology, these games have educational functions that cannot be ignored.
The whole society participates in children's reading.
Parents bear all-round responsibilities for their children's education and need to collect educational information of children of different ages. American public libraries play the role of educational information center to some extent, providing practical reference and guidance for parents. From pregnancy nutrition, baby rearing, family education guidance, list of early education institutions, information about places and schedules suitable for children around, introduction of public welfare education projects to list of principles for choosing children's education institutions, and tutorials for children riding alone, most libraries will provide several items. This information usually appears in the form of free publicity pages and is placed in front of the library or at the service counter for the convenience of parents.
American public libraries have generally established good cooperative relations with library associations, education departments, non-profit organizations and enterprises. Or promote reading and education programs, or use external resources to better serve children. For example, participate in the early reading promotion project of non-profit organizations "Pre-school Reading 1000 Books". The library will also invite professionals from technology companies to give lectures or lead children to participate in activities.
In terms of differences or characteristics, almost every library has its own characteristics, regardless of its size. Features can be architecture, environmental creation, library resources, services, activities, slogans and any other aspects. Some library buildings adopt specific design elements, some feature a large collection of animal specimens, and some libraries are famous for holding a large number of rich children's activities.
Generally speaking, American public libraries provide space for children to read, study and even play outside their families. Whether it is to improve library services or promote children's development, its "child-centered" design and service concept are worth learning.
(Author: Department of Education, Tianjin Normal University)
China Education News 6th Edition 2020+065438+ 10/3.
Author: Guan Lei