Connecting boys to the library

One of the challenges of having boys in the library is not only having materials that will interest them but convincing them that reading can be cool.

Michael Sullivan, Connecting Boys with Books: What Libraries Can Do

All about making media center boy friendly and connecting to boys.

Male authors, sports and action stories, edgy comedy, non-traditional format.

"From Booklist
Statistics show that boys do not read as much as girls. Given the importance of reading in developing vocabulary, self-expression, and higher-level thinking skills, it is essential to get boys engaged with books. In this brief, highly readable treatise, author Sullivan outlines both the tenets of successful programming for boys in the tweens--ages 8 to 12--and methods that can be used to put theory into practice. Covering genres that appeal to boys, the power of reading-related games, sports-themed library programming, and a well-run chess program, this compendium of ideas and recommendations will help both school and public librarians reach their young male constituents. The combination of practical programming recommendations and philosophical and statistical background makes for potent advocacy. RBB
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved"

- From Amazon

It is now on my wishlist ... heh

And the "You Wouldn't want to be..." series looks like a winner for my kids.

Fellowship of the Books ...

Choosing groups. Older boys, dads and male faculty leading small groups of 4th and 5th grade boys during lunch in the media center.

Pick a name

Confront the books -  set out the books ahead of time and let them choose the books they want to read. Score sheet, where they choose their favorites. Try to get discussions going. Each groups had to read the same series so they would have plenty to talk about when they come back.
Conquer the books _ choose, check out, and read. Return in 2 weeks to eat, chat, argue

Finale: Ice cream sundaes, evaluation

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