Chatterbooks 2010 Libraries tag:www.chatterbooks.org.uk,2009-09-23://24 2011-06-27T14:07:34Z Movable Type Pro 4.34-en How Chatterbooks can work for public libraries tag:www.chatterbooks.org.uk,2010://24.1933 2010-01-22T16:51:31Z 2011-06-27T14:07:34Z Chatterbooks began in 2001 as the first national network of children's reading groups in libraries. lynne taylor Chatterbooks aims to inspire and widen children's reading, to increase their reading enjoyment and confidence.

Library services use Chatterbooks in their work towards both national and local targets and agendas.

As a result of taking part in Chatterbooks

• Children are reading more books and reading more widely
• Children are more confident about themselves as readers
• Children are more confident in forming and expressing their opinions
• Children are contributing to shaping library services
• Children are being involved in wider cultural experiences
• Staff are more skilled and confident in relating with children, and are more knowledgeable about children's books

What you get - and how you can get it

For public libraries to join the network there are just three things you need to do:

1. Book Chatterbooks training: To become part of the UK Chatterbooks network, it is valuable to attend the Chatterbooks training. This comprehensive introduction to setting up and running reading groups will leave you buzzing with ideas to try out. Contact info@chatterbooks.org.uk for information about training available.

2. Order materials:

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The Chatterbooks packs give children a feeling of belonging to the national Chatterbooks network, and they provide a range of materials to encourage their reading.

Chatterbooks packs consist of a bag, a bookmark, a reading diary, an A3 sticker sheet, 'Book Bite' post-it pad, and a Chatterbooks pen.

Packs are sold in sets of 10 and 25; each set includes 4 posters to promote Chatterbooks events and activities.

These are available to order from The Reading Agency online Shop..

3. Keep in touch! Contact info@chatterbooks.org.uk to share your ideas and comments.

When you join the Chatterbooks network you will receive the following support and resources from The Reading Agency:

  • Chatterbooks Handbook: this Handbook provides you with guidance on setting up, publicising, and running your groups. There are ideas for sessions, and guidelines for evaluating your groups' achievements and outcomes.
  • Chatterbooks e-Newsletter: this is a termly newsletter, with news, views and ideas from groups, and updates on any national activity that your groups can get involved in. Together with the Newsletter comes a Publishers' Supplement with news of the latest titles for children, publisher offers, and special themed booklists to give you more ideas for your sessions
  • Online sharing of good practice and problem-solving with members of the Chatterbooks network through the website Reading Groups for Everyone
  • Email support from The Reading Agency Chatterbooks support team - just contact info@chatterbooks.org.uk
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