Early Learning in Libraries
To give you a little more background about me, I worked at the Denver Public Library for a little over five years, and I spent much of that time working with an organization called CLEL, or Colorado Libraries for Early Literacy. At the time, it was the only organization of its kind in the country, bringing early learning specialists together from all over the state to improve resources for everyone living here.
In my time with CLEL, I organized the recording of several Storyblocks videos, served on the CLEL Bell Awards Committee, and presented at the annual conference.
I'm thrilled to be presenting again this year. My topic has to do with Storytime and the feeling of imposter syndrome that often accompanies first-time Storytime presenters. No matter whether you're following in the footsteps of an established favorite or starting out with very little experience, the feeling is real.
Even if you have never presented a Storytime and are reading to children at home, you may have experienced this feeling, as well.
You're not alone.
The bottom line is this: when you are reading to young people, it's the intent behind your actions that is the most important thing. Everything else comes down to your unique personality and presentation style. When you care enough about encouraging literacy, it will come through in whatever you do, however you do it.
If you're interested in participating in the conference, there is still room available and you can learn more here.
Feel free to respond about this topic if it moves you; it's one that is near and dear to my heart!
I hope you find something that speaks to you in the pages of my blog. If you think something's missing, I invite you to reach out and let me know! There's always room to grow.
And now...on to the books. :)
--Mary