Manifestos: Voices from the next generation

Introduction by Kristin Fontichiaro, University of Michigan School of Information Teaching pre-service librarians and educators is an unparalleled privilege that many in MAME have had the good fortune to experience. On the precipice of professional practice, students in our graduate programs in information and library science bring fresh energy, vitality and passion to those of us already in practice. As part of their reflections on their experiences in SI 624: Media for Children and Young Adults, students were asked to synthesize their beliefs about resources and services for youth. Some used the National Public Radio “This I Believe” format, and some created a patron bill of rights. Their strengths in synthesizing collection development, nurturing environments, and policy reminds us of the powerful impact of libraries and librarians.

Young people have the right to ...

• Read good books. • Read fun books. • Read educational books. • Read books that have no intellectual component of any kind

• Read things that aren’t books • Read books that I hate • Explore different cultures and beliefs through library materials.

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• See their own beliefs and cultures presented fairly, accurately and respectfully in library materials

• Read graphic novels – about anything! They have manga that teach calculus!

• Get that book that everyone’s talking about. • Be able to find books that are obscure and only loved by a cult following.

• Read books their parents don’t know they’re reading.

Basically, young people have the right to read what they like!

Maria Kramer This I believe

This I believe... that books aren’t read, they are experienced.

This I believe... that books take a reader outside of the mundane.

This I believe... that books show us ourselves. This I believe... that books show us the world.

This I believe... that all forms of reading should be encouraged.

This I believe... that children deserve rich experiences just as much as adults.

This I believe... that libraries are invaluable in providing the reading experience to all.

This I believe... that libraries are more than just books.

This I believe... that connecting a reader with the perfect experience is a joyful accomplishment.

This I believe... that one of the great tragedies of this life is that there isn’t enough time to experience all the amazing stories one should.

Josh Ohlendorf

Media www.mimame.org

Spring 2010