Children’s Literature in Action: A Librarian’s Guide By Sylvia M. Vardell Chapter One Reflection

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Children’s Literature in Action: A Librarian’s Guide

By Sylvia M. Vardell

Chapter One Reflection  

Chapter one does a great job in introducing what librarians must do to get children to become more literate. Vardell states, “It’s up to us to work with the other adults in children’s lives (families, teachers, other caregivers) to create a reading climate.” We must be able to relate to children and learn all types of genres to be able to find literature that interests them to become active readers. Vardell mentions how children create habits like watching television and by having individuals in their lives that encourage and guide them, they will develop as better readers.  Librarians should be well rounded in all genres like the chapter mentions. 


Another concept referenced, is exposing children to an array of multicultural literature to help them become more compassionate towards others. Through, reading books about other cultural backgrounds will give them a view of different experiences and perspectives. We as future librarians we should be conscious of the fact that in some areas libraries are not as easily accessible for children. Although, as Ruurs states, “…libraries are not buildings. They are collections of books that are accessible to readers in one way or another…” Society is very diverse and books can be portal for children to learn and be respectful of people with different backgrounds. It is important make these books as easily accessible to children and can recommend books that they will enjoy reading.


The chapter indicates how literature is greatly influenced by families. How literacy-related activities assist children in becoming more well-read such as storytelling and singing. From personal experience my mother did not speak any English, but would take me to the library to listen to audio books and read in general. This helped me tremendously while I was growing up. Vardell states, “What can we do to make everyone feel welcome in the library…” this to me is very significant. Children come from many cultural backgrounds and some have not mastered the English language. Vardell mentions how having books, articles, magazines, etc. in different languages would make families more incline to visit the library and I agree. While I would go in search for my books my mother would go and look through a section of Spanish written books at our local library this would make our trip more enjoyable. I believe that families with similar circumstance would appreciate having some books in their language as well.


The chapter continues to mention much valuable information such as the three essential building blocks to develop good reading skills. Children must at an early age have, “developing oral language skills and phonological awareness…developing print awareness and letter knowledge…and having motivation to learn and some experience and exposure to books and stories.” The importance of broad collections of books and making our reading aloud more actively engaging. The many roles a librarian has within a school such as a advisor and collaborator with the teachers to achieve higher student learning.  How reading aloud has many benefits. Vardell states, “…children can understand much more challenging works than they can tackle on their own.” Children are more willing to read more rigorous books if they are read aloud for they can focus on content rather than decoding words.  

Overall, I enjoyed the reading this chapter it had a lot of valuable information. In addition, I liked the book recommendations and avenues one can use for recommending books to children such as websites and apps. The lists of sources to find books and awards is very helpful to determine if a book would be a good choice for a library collection.  I only wish there was more on how to find more global literature for children. After reading this chapter, a librarian should include a variety of books from old classics to modern day literature of upcoming authors. While being aware of the demographics and cultural backgrounds of people. 

 Vardell, Sylvia. (2014). Children's Literature in Action:  A Librarian's Guide, 2nd Edition (2nd ed.). Santa Barbara, CA: Libraries Unlimited. ISBN-13: 978-1610695626

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