Passive
readers' advisory is delivering suggestions for leisure reading in a way
that does not “engage the patron directly” (Smith, Warburton, and Rutledge,
2016). Passive readers' advisory techniques involve utilizing library
spaces, cataloging, and marketing to suggest titles to readers or to help
readers find more of what they want. Passive readers' advisory is important
because it engages patrons who may not be comfortable asking for help as well
as patrons who do not come into the library much. Further, passive readers'
advisory services can be easily integrated into workflows.
Displays
draw readers in with eye-catching signage or decoration. Displays can be
themed around current events or recent pop culture topics. They can be
changed rather quickly, and they are an effective use of book cover art that is
often hidden when the items are shelved. Speaking of shelving, many libraries
choose to shelve by genre so their patrons will be able to find items they're
looking for. Cataloging books with respect for their genre is a must for
patrons and staff to efficiently use the OPAC.
Passive
readers' advisory is very easily integrated into libraries' marketing.
Especially in an age where so many people are connected via social media,
libraries can post read-a-like lists, images of displays, or new and upcoming
book orders. Posts are sharable and, in many case, interactive.
Passive
readers' advisory is related to active readers' advisory in that
librarians should take into consideration appeal factors beyond genre, such as
pacing, setting, and tone. Displays, reading lists, and social media posts are
great ways to promote titles in a way that indirectly engages library
patrons and potential patrons but may be more convenient and less intimidating
than a face-to-face interaction.
Smith,
S., Warburton, S., and Rutledge, J. (2016). Connecting patrons with library materials:
a readers’ advisory crash course. Innovative Libraries Online Conference. Retrieved March 1, 2017 from http://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/ld/c-d/continuing-ed/iloc/iloc-2016/handouts/connecting-patrons/connecting-patrons.pdf
Great topic, I think this will be the way more and more reader's advisory will be done.
ReplyDeleteI never really thought about displays and signage as reader's advisory before! That really puts a new perspective on displays for me. We often do themed displays for the holidays or set books out to highlight certain genres. I feel like most libraries probably inadvertently do most of their reader's advisory this way. Interesting topic.
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