This is the first book to provide practical guidance for library staff on virtual storytime planning and production. Learn how to design virtual youth services tailored to patrons in different communities, and how virtual programs serve as a form of community outreach.
Included in this guide:
Case studies of successful virtual storytime programs Creative examples of potential programs, which can be developed and adapted Simple tips on how to increase production value, regardless of available space and equipment Features of virtual storytime software with which presenters should familiarize themselves A comprehensive list of websites, software applications, and assets for creating and sharing virtual programs An overview of laws concerning online privacy and the use of copyrighted materials in virtual storytimes Background information and talking points addressing the benefits and drawbacks of screen time for young patrons Sample training syllabus, outline, script, and reflection questions for virtual storytime staff
Childrens librarians will find useful case studies, tips, and resources in this volume.
Preface |
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xi | |
Acknowledgments |
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xv | |
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Chapter 1 Choosing a Virtual Format |
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1 | (20) |
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Identifying Audiences and Developing Goals |
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1 | (4) |
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Synchronous versus Asynchronous Storytimes |
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5 | (3) |
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Exploration of Virtual Formats |
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8 | (13) |
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Chapter 2 Technological Considerations |
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21 | (20) |
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Hardware Requirements and Recommendations |
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21 | (9) |
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Software for Virtual Storytime |
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30 | (11) |
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41 | (14) |
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Privacy Laws and Best Practices |
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41 | (2) |
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43 | (2) |
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Least Risk: Original Content and Public Domain |
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45 | (3) |
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Medium Risk: Creative Commons and Attribution |
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48 | (2) |
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Most Risk: Using Copyrighted Media |
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50 | (5) |
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Chapter 4 Planning and Preparation |
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55 | (18) |
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Planning: Now With More Technology |
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55 | (4) |
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Production Quality: Before Filming |
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59 | (5) |
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Planning Interactive Storytimes |
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64 | (4) |
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Criteria for Selecting Books |
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68 | (1) |
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Preparing Storytime Outlines and Scripts |
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69 | (4) |
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73 | (12) |
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Strategies for Common Challenges |
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73 | (3) |
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Best Practices During Synchronous Storytimes |
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76 | (3) |
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Recording Video and Audio |
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79 | (2) |
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81 | (4) |
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85 | (14) |
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Key Competencies for Virtual Storytime Staff |
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85 | (2) |
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Screen Time and Media Mentorship |
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87 | (4) |
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Training for Virtual Storytime |
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91 | (1) |
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Avoiding and Addressing Staff Burnout |
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92 | (7) |
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Chapter 7 Outreach and Promotion |
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99 | (14) |
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Creating Meaningful Partnerships |
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99 | (5) |
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104 | (3) |
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Social Media Best Practices |
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107 | (6) |
Appendix A Resources for Content Creators |
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113 | (6) |
Appendix B Case Study Interview: Read With Us |
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119 | (4) |
Appendix C Case Study: Drawing a Crowd on Facebook Live |
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123 | (8) |
Appendix D Storytime Outline Template: Video Conference |
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131 | (6) |
Index |
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137 | (2) |
About the Author |
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139 | |
Rebecca Ogle began her career as a content writer and digital marketer, before pursuing her passion for library services. Before COVID-19, she focused her outreach efforts on inclusivity and accessibility to literacy programs and resources for low-income and unhoused families. When Phoenix Public Libraries closed to the public, the Early Literacy Outreach Team (ELOT) sprang into action researching and developing a wide range of virtual programs, both pre-recorded and live. Rebecca and her ELOT colleagues earned a Service Excellence Award from the City of Phoenix for their creativity and efficacy adapting library programs for online patrons. While every member of ELOT, and a number of Phoenix Public Library branch staff, brought their own strengths to virtual storytimes, Rebecca discovered a particular knack for engaging audiences in her low-key, soothing style. She is passionate about equity, inclusivity, and access to library resources, and believes virtual storytimes can truly make a difference in every community.