The More We Get Together: An Ethnographic Study Comparing Public Library Programs for Young Children

• In Event: Crown Plaza Roundtable Session 3
  In Roundtable Session: Cultural Studies in Settings Serving Young Children

Abstract

Public libraries and libraries that are held within public schools are special places for families of young children, and unfortunately, due to budget cuts, are being closed throughout the United States (Di Carlo, 2011). This ethnographic comparative case study focused on two distinct public library programs specifically designed for young children and their families, which were located within a large metropolitan area of the Southwestern United States. Through observations, one-on-one conversations, and interviews with parents, nannies, grandparents, and library class teachers, I attempted to understand how families became informed of these public library programs, what attracted the families to return week after week, and how libraries could fulfill the social, academic, and community development needs of the families and children.

Author

• Kathryn P. Chapman, Arizona State University - Tempe