LSC 838 The Reading Experience in Libraries, Archives and Museums

Working with readers has always been a cornerstone of library practice. Traditionally referred to as readers' advisory, reading work has expanded beyond book displays, individual requests for a good read, and book clubs. It has become a foundation of extensive library programming, meaningful leisure, personal enjoyment, and as an instrument of building healthy and engaged communities. It has turned from monolingual to multilingual, and has claimed its place in the virtual library environment. No longer limited to public libraries, the act of reading comprises a growing area of interest in academic and special libraries, book publishing, and book trade. This course will introduce students to the selected theories of reading behaviors; the practical skills of engaging readers, developing reader services, programming, and advocacy; the major genres and sub-genres of fiction and nonfiction materials; a wide array of print and electronic tools facilitating this practice; electronic reading and online reading communities; and foundations of bibliotherapy. This course is focused on adult readers. For other audiences, see LSC 848: Media for Children and LSC 849: Media for Young Adults.