Camp Read-a-Lot 2018
Camp Read-a-Lot is a conference designed for librarians and teachers focusing on reading and evaluating newer children's literature. At this two day event, 'campers' come together to discuss the books and hear presentations by noted Minnesota authors. Camp Read 2018 featured Minnesota authors Marsha Wilson Chall, and Kathleen Baxter. This program is a muti-regional program in partnership with Pioneerland Library System, Plum Creek Library System, and Prairielands Library Exchange.
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It is hoped that many of the teachers attending will have the opportunity to earn continuing education credits toward their licensure. Other opportunities include an exposure to children's literature that is new or recently published. In completing the assigned reading, each participant should gain a new understanding of reading material they may not be familiar with prior to attending. This years Camp will feature books for Early Literacy on day 1, and Grades 2-5 on day 2.
47 attended Camp Read-a-Lot 2018: 16 individuals from libraries, 29 from schools, and 2 'other.' This years presenters, Marsha Wilson Chall and Kathleen Baxter, provided diverse presentations. Chall was the featured speaker on Day 1 (Early Literacy) and gave an informative, entertaining talk about writing and children's literature. Jennifer Verbrugge and Leah Larson of MDE spoke in the afternoon about the State's early literacy initiatives. Day 2 featured Kathleen Baxter who spoke about her book "My Betsy-Tacy Miracle" and provided a book talk featuring non-fiction books. All presentations were well received. Evaluation comments include: "There is so much value in hearing about, reading, and discussing books - particularly those we might not pick up on our own or don't like."
Prairielands Library Exchange (provided funding), Pioneerland Library System (shares in the cost), Plum Creek Library System (shares in the cost)