INF 7250: Programming and Services for Children and Young Adults

Credits: 3

Prerequisite(s): INF 6010 and INF 6080

Rationale for inclusion in curriculum

In work with children and young adults in public libraries there is a need for skill in the development of programming and in the planning of services directed to children and young adults. This course analyzes the principles and procedures for the development, management and delivery of public library services to children and young adults.

Course objectives

To provide an understanding of age-specific services, program planning and evaluation, child and adolescent development, the development of reading and how these factors impact upon the librarian's role in serving children and young adults.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course students will be able to:

  1. Identify the implications of child/adolescent development for programming and services in public libraries.
  2. Construct a service plan that addresses:
    • Program goals and rationale
    • Community environment
    • Audience parameters
    • Human and material resources
    • Promotional and evaluative objectives
  3. Relate the stages of reading and information literacy development to programming and services for children and adolescents.
  4. Locate, adapt, and create programs for age-specific services.
  5. Review contemporary issues and trends in library services to children and young adults.
  6. Integrate technology into programming and services for children and young adults.

Content

Organization, structure and management of a Children and Young Adult department; Philosophy of service to children and young adults; Developmental needs and interests of children and young adults; Literature-sharing methods and techniques; Networking and programming resources; Multimedia programming; Issues in planning delivery of services; Serving the special child; Summer programming.

Course methodology

Discussion, lecture, field trips, demonstrations, oral presentations and guest lecturers.

Bases for evaluation of student performance

Class discussion; oral and written presentations; development of the program plan.

Text

To be determined

Approved: 1/12

Updated: 8/13