Librarian's Guide to Passive Programming: Easy and Affordable Activities for All Ages

by Emily T. Wichman

Learn the concept of passive programming and get started easily with plans for implementing a wide array of intergenerational programs in libraries with this professional primer.

Libraries are an integral part of the community, a fact that can often be overlooked in today's world of home-based online research. Passive programs encourage patrons to linger―either in the library or on the library's website―and promote a connection to the library's collections, its services, and the community.

Librarian's Guide to Passive Easy and Affordable Activities for All Ages presents plans for 32 passive programs designed to capture the attention of library patrons. Each chapter―which contains programs grouped thematically―details the steps necessary to reproduce the programs, and includes supporting handouts, activities, and photographs. This helpful guide also examines what passive programming is, why passive programming is relevant, and offers strategies across all aspects of its implementation―from developing program ideas to evaluating program success.

Genres: Nonfiction, Librarianship

172 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[Amy Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a pretty good idea book for any librarian and any library. It offers 32 different passive programs with variations on each one. Most of the programs are accompanied by a list of supplies and collection tie-in ideas. The book could have benefitted from some more consistency, but for the most part, it was clear and easy to follow. The programs were described briefly enough that they were not overwhelming but thorough enough that you understand how to use the program in your library. It also inspired lots of other ideas and variations in our library. We're excited to start up some of the programs mentioned!
I would recommend that it be added to any professional library collection.

[Cathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Useful ideas for libraries with limited budgets (which is just about all of us) and patrons that don't attend regular on-site library programs. These are the kind of activities that can be completed at each patron's convenience.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emily does a great job of living up to the books' promise of Easy and Affordable...Literally any academic, private or public library could use this. The book is primarily catered towards teens and school age kids, though there are some that focus on adults.

Check this one out. It was very helpful and insightful, as passive programming seems to be the way things are headed.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will be purchasing this book because I want to implement all the activities in it! I just graduated with my masters in information sciences to become a public librarian and this book gave me so many fun ideas to try out in my new position!

[Heidi · Rating 3 out of 5]

some good starting points for programs, not sure we should really be recommending patrons take library books on far flung vacations tho??? like what are u gonna do when they tell u the book is in some hotel in France

[Ericka · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lots of fun ideas. Wish it was longer.

[Kristine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great resource for librarians looking to up their number of passive programs. It contains numerous examples and tries to spark your own creative side. Even though I'm the only employee at a small rural library, I wrote down over half the suggestions as possibilities for the future. The organization by type of program was helpful. All of the programs even included sample promotional materials and photos of them being used in libraries..

Some suggestions found in the book include a laid-back book club, a guess-the-cover contest, a display of photos of patrons with their library books while on vacation, a guess-the-shredded-book contest, a cooperative writing project, and a holiday greeting card exchange.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of great ideas for passive programming. I ordered this for my library's professional collection.

[Cassie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great programming ideas. I especially love guess the author, wacky library, and the month-long celebration of the 1980s. These ideas will be good for next year.

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actually didn't finish it but realized I should just buy it for the library. Lots of great ideas to use.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very helpful professional resource, particularly for libraries with little budget. I am using this book to help with some research for a professional development session I am presenting. I would love to see an updated version down the line.