ALSC and CLEL launch a Virtual Storytime Services Guide

CHICAGO— During times of crises, libraries continue to play a vital role in connecting their communities to resources, information, and to each other. The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) and the Colorado Libraries for Early Literacy (CLEL) have released a Virtual Storytime Services Guide to assist libraries in creating high quality and meaningful online experiences for their patrons.

As libraries of all types are expanding their digital collections and exploring virtual program offerings, this free guide is offered as a comprehensive resource to support librarians in this shift to more virtual work. Topics covered in this guide include:

• Technology Tools
• Suggested Practices
• Copyright Considerations
• Serving Diverse Children and Families
• Promoting Virtual Storytime Programs
• Other Virtual Children’s Programs
• External Resources to Support Early Literacy

Each of these sections includes resources and suggestions for library leadership, departments involved in the virtual program editing or marketing processes, and virtual program providers.

This guide was created in collaboration with many dedicated individuals as part of a Virtual Storytime Guide Working Group and others who shared their expertise. For a detailed acknowledgments list, please visit the introduction of the Virtual Storytime Services Guide. The full guide can be accessed for free by visiting the ALSC.

The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) is driven by more than 4,000 members dedicated to the support and enrichment of library service to children. Our members include youth librarians, literature experts, publishers, and educational faculty. ALSC supports its members in engaging communities to build healthy, successful, futures for all children. To learn more about ALSC and how to join, please visit: www.ala.org/alsc.