Hello all,
I have a small parent library that I am trying to make more accessible. Any advice on a format to use that advertises what books are available? What kind of check out system do you use? Can you share a picture of how you display them?
Susan
A while back I had a parenting library in our lobby with library pockets and the cards inside that you'd write your name on to check it out. When books weren't returned, I could then ask. Sometimes I'd get them back after a reminder. Sometimes I wouldn't. If I were to do it again, I'd do the free giveaway version and just try to keep it stocked when I was able to, and hope that parents added to it. It's probably less hassle to not worry about people not returning them.
Not an exclusive parent library, but we have a Little Free Library in front of our preschool. It’s double-sided, 1 side for kids and 1 side for adults. I try to keep a couple parenting books, Christian books, and then whatever misc books people donate on the parent side. I don’t track them. Sometimes the books return and sometimes I never see them again and I’m ok with that! I keep a stack of my *most favorite* books to refer parents to in my office. Those have a better chance to return and I hand them directly to the parent usually after a conversation about that topic. If I really love a book I may share it with my parents by adding a link either in the monthly newsletter or in an email, podcasts too. When I think of it, I’ll look up my favorite books on Amazon and buy them used so I can have several inexpensive copies to put in the LFL and give away. I’ve attached a picture I found on my camera roll from last March. 🍀📗📗📗 I don’t always do themes, but I at least try to rotate the books and keep in the right season. 🤗