WebJunction

 Welcome to the children’s services page of WebJunction Indiana! We know how busy children’s librarians are and how quickly things are changing in the library world, so here you will find links to assist you in areas such as early literacy, programming, summer reading and national initiatives. Please check back often as we will feature new information throughout the year. 

Free early literacy activities

http://www.walearning.com/

Looking for fresh ideas on how to bring early literacy skills to the parents and caregivers who visit your library? Check out Washing Learning System's website for free downloadable handouts with activities. Handouts are available in both English and Spanish.

Summer Reading fun

http://www.librarypalooza.com/

Download free fonts, programming ideas and more just in time for summer reading!

The Story Connection

http://www.librarypalooza.com/

Author and storyteller Dianne de Las Casas' website features a new story each month that you can print and use in programs as well as fingerplays, games and other great activities.

The Official Kids' Portal to the U.S. Government

http://www.kids.gov

This site features tons of links that are proven kid-safe. You'll find links about the government, education and schools that are geared to children grades K-5 and 6-8. Educators will also find links to lesson plans, activities and professional development.

Kids! @ Your Library Campaign

http://www.ala.org/ala/alsc/projectspartners/Kidsyourlibrary.htm

Here you’ll find lots of free ideas for programs and marketing for school age children at your library. There are puzzles, scavenger hunts and much more. In the tool kit section, check out musician Bill Harley’s song written just for the campaign, download artwork for your own publications, use the templates to create your own bookmark contest or even find a reader’s theater script!

Collaborative Summer Library Program

http://www.cslpreads.org/

Catch the Reading Bug with the 2008 Collaborative Summer Library Program!  You’ll find out lots about the current program as well as helpful links with programming ideas.  Watch out for updates to the future themes as well as public service announcements for this year.

National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature

http://www.cbcbooks.org/naypl/index.html

Jon Scieszka, author of several humorous children’s books has been appointed the first National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. Scieszka will be touring the country promoting the virtues of reading as well as being a presenter at the 2008 National Book Festival in Washington, D.C. Look for more from the Children’s Book Council and The Library of Congress for updates activities.

Every Child Ready to Read

http://in.webjunction.org/do/DisplayContent?id=19097

Every Child Ready to Read @ Your Library is an ALSC/PLA initiative aimed at helping librarians prepare children to be ready to read when they start school. You’ll find information about the six early literacy skills, handouts for parents and caregivers and other resources here. 

INchildprog Listserv

http://lists.in.gov/mailman/listinfo/inchildprog

Want to connect with other Indiana children’s librarians?  Subscribe to the Indiana Children’s Programming listserv to find out what’s happening around the state and to reach out to others in the profession.