Preservice Teachers’ Use of the University Libraries Children’s Literature Collection

Abstract

The necessity of preservice teachers’ familiarity with children’s literature remains highly significant, while their methods for achieving this familiarity are expanding. This research assessed the selection and acquisition methods of preservice teachers and their faculty. Researchers identified five children’s literature courses being taught during the fall 2017 semester and interviewed faculty members, reviewed course syllabi, and surveyed enrolled students. The data collected suggests that preservice teachers are primarily interested in quickly and easily acquiring titles and are often seeking specific titles. Suggestions for adjustments to outreach methods and organization of the children’s literature collection are given.

Keywords:

• Children’s literature
• preservice teachers
• academic libraries
• book selection
• book acquisition