Knowing About the Books

Knowing something about books and what people like to read is central to our work with every one who comes into the library.

Whether it's biography, crime novels, the latest fiction - or children's books, we need to know enough about the books to help people find what they are looking for, or to give them more ideas for their reading.

One of the main ways of getting to know about the books is listening to what readers tell us about them, and talking with people about their reading.

Reading groups and Reading challenges are two activities which provide great opportunities for young people to talk with you about books.

Have a look too at the section on this site called Helping Young Readers Develop, where you can explore some scenarios covering different library situations with young readers.

Use TRF Coffee Break, the online discussion area, to share views and enthusiasms with colleagues across the library network, and keep each other up-to-date about the favourite reads of young people all over the country.

These journals (Word, 42kb) are a good source of up to date knowedge about children's books and book publishing. You could also look at the TRF links section, About Young People's Books and Reading – where you will find links to other website about children's books and reading, as well as websites which have book reviews and recommendations from young people themselves.