Other benefits include more contact with parents that can lessen intimidation of seeking assistance and the fact that parents can keep an eye on their children while browsing for information they need. Toys or puzzles kept near the parenting shelves can help keep young children busy while parents look for items. Selection considerations Consider doing a needs assessment, user survey, or service provider meeting to get input on subjects your collection should include. Consider materials that will meet the needs of parents who are not fluent in English or have limited literacy skills. A list of parenting materials available in Spanish language can be found by clicking here.
Currency is critical with health and disability related materials.
Although some older parenting titles may still have relevant information, many parents are seeking information published as recently as possible. Quality, clarity and accuracy are other important considerations for weeding and buying new materials. Other sources of information on good parenting titles include Library Journal , Booklist and Publishers Weekly . The newest parenting topics or those by well-known authors are likely to be featured on talk shows, newspaper review or featured in magazines or newsletters your library may already subscribe to. If you have any parents on staff, ask if they would be willing to bring any reviews they notice to the attention of the person who will be ordering new titles for the collection.