The Passive Programming Playbook - by Paula Willey & Andria Amaral (Paperback)

About the Book

This book offers 101 passive programming ideas that are extendable, adaptable, customizable, and above all, stealable--so your passive programming never runs dry.
Passive programming is a cheap, quick, fun way to make all library customers feel like part of the community. It can support reading initiatives, foster family engagement, encourage visit frequency, and coax interaction out of library lurkers--while barely making a dent in your programming budget. Passive programming can be targeted at children, teens, adults, or seniors; used to augment existing programs; and executed in places where staff-led programming can't reach. It can be light-footed, spontaneous, and easily deployed to reflect and respond to current news, media, library events, and even the weather. But even passive programming pros run out of ideas sometimes, and when that happens, they want a fresh, funny source of inspiration.

• Make programming less intimidating
• Get the most bang for your buck from whatever resources you have available
• Make diverse customers feel welcome and seen
• Encourage repeat/regular library visits
• Boost your programming statistics

Book Synopsis

This book offers 101 passive programming ideas that are extendable, adaptable, customizable, and above all, stealable--so your passive programming never runs dry.

Passive programming is a cheap, quick, fun way to make all library customers feel like part of the community. It can support reading initiatives, foster family engagement, encourage visit frequency, and coax interaction out of library lurkers--while barely making a dent in your programming budget. Passive programming can be targeted at children, teens, adults, or seniors; used to augment existing programs; and executed in places where staff-led programming can't reach. It can be light-footed, spontaneous, and easily deployed to reflect and respond to current news, media, library events, and even the weather. But even passive programming pros run out of ideas sometimes, and when that happens, they want a fresh, funny source of inspiration.

Review Quotes

"Packed with great ideas that require little money or staff time, this volume will appeal broadly to library program planners, particularly those on tight budgets and those who want to expand patron participation." --Library Journal

"Both public and school librarians can get inspired by these fun ideas; teen library councils could also have a great time designing and implementing these passive programs." --Booklist

About the Author

Paula Willey is a children's librarian in Baltimore, MD. She has written about children's literature and family engagement for publications such as School Library Journal, the Baltimore Sun, Booklist, VOYA, and Baltimore's Child.

Andria L. Amaral plans and develops public library programs and collections and services for students in grades 6-12. She serves on the board of the YALLFest young adult literature festival.