Camp Read-a-Lot 2018
Camp Read-a-Lot is a literary conference designed for librarians and teachers who read and evaluate current children's literature and then come together to discuss the books. In addition, the conference features presentations by prominent Minnesota children's authors. Librarians from the Meinders Community Library provided a demonstration on book display and hosted their Escape Room on Wednesday evening for those staying overnight at the hotel. This year's speakers included: David LaRochelle, John Coy and Robert Covert. In addition, Leah Larson and Andrea Egbert from the State Department of Education provided a session on facilitation skills. This year the scheduled provided a full reading range from preschool through grade 12 levels.
47 participated
It is hopeful that the majority of those attending will have the opportunity to earn continuing education credits toward their licensure. Other benefits include an exposure to children's literature that is new or recently published. In completing the assigned reading, each should have a new understanding of reading material that they may not have been familiar with. This year's Camp will feature books for Early Literacy on day 1 and grades 2-5 on day 2. Participant evaluations will be collected.
There were 62 attendees on day #1 and 29 on day #2. The speakers were exceptional and provided a variety of areas of expertise for the attendees. The break out sessions where the books from the reading lists are discussed were well received and participants were actively engaged in discussing the books together. In all, 25 attendees earned continuing education credit hours for their participating in Camp Read a Lot. The authors David LaRochelle and John Coy discussed aspects of writing and publishing their books. Ralph Covert spoke on using music in education as well as the process of writing. Leah Larson and Andrea Egbert spoke on facilitation skills.
Pioneerland Library System, Prairielands Exchange, registration fees