I survived my first summer as a children’s librarian. Yay me. These are the things I have learned:
1) You can’t please everyone. (Parents will always ask, “Is this all you have planned for the kids?” even if you have a program or something to offer every day. Do what you think is best and aim for quality over quantity.)
2) You will be exhausted. (It is demanding trying to keep up with the SRP and take care of your regular duties. It just is.)
3) Kids still love to read. (This made me more happy than anything and made the work worth it.)
To remember for next year:
1) Schedule/Request paid programs at earlier times during the day. (This was a request from a lot of daycares and parents. I also think it will help generate higher attendance.)
2) Create a display that promotes the SRP and shows participation. I think this will help generate more excitement.
3) Let the kids vote on the weekly movie. (This way I don’t have to pick.)
4) Triple-check schedules and calendars. (For reals.)
