Creating a Readers' Advisory Service: Connecting Books and Readers

This series of three classes will introduce online tools, databases and software to help libraries create a Readers' Advisory service tailored to each unique library.  We will explore ways in which libraries can reach readers who normally find reading material on their own or have run out of "good" books.  We will also discuss new concepts in the area of Readers' Advisory and maybe come up with some of our own!

Class 1:  The Basics: Tools and Materials - This class will be held over the Internet and brought right to your desktop.  After you register, you will receive further information on how to set up your computer for the Wimba classroom.  The classroom uses VoIP (voice over the Internet), so you will need to have headphones or speakers.  A microphone is not essential, but it will enhance your experience. 

Class 2:  New Tools for Connecting with Readers - This class consists of four smaller online tutorials covering podcasting, blogs, wikis and other tools on the horizon.  Each tutorial will take approximately one hour to finish, including follow-up activities.  You will be responsible for working through these tutorials on your own before Class 3 begins.

Class 3:  Creating and Promoting Readers' Advisory Service - This final class will be "in person" in the Wimba classroom, using the same link from the first class.  The class will take the components of the first two classes, along with our ideas, to help us create unique readers' advisory services for each library.