iPads in the Children’s Room: Everything You Need to Know to Launch an iPad Program at Your Library

From apps and eBooks to touch-screen technology, the world of children’s services is changing at a rapid pace. Along with opportunities for innovative new programs and collections come questions about budget, values, and advocacy. When should librarians invest in new technology? How can staff integrate emerging technology into existing programs? How do new tech tools support literacy and learning in the 21^st century?

In September 2011, Darien Library (CT) launched an iPad program that included six circulating “Early Literacy iPad” kits, a mounted iPad, and the use of apps in programs for various age groups. Kiera Parrott, Head of Children’s Services at Darien Library, will detail how her library has successfully used iPads with children and will detail a variety of ways that librarians can establish their own iPad programs at almost any budget level.

Learning Objectives:

After attending this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Incorporate the principles of transliteracy to advocate effectively for the use of emerging technology in support of 21st century skill-building.
• Plan, promote, and evaluate an iPad program in your public library.
• Implement evaluation techniques and criteria for selecting high-quality apps for children.
• Explain the details of privacy settings, technical setup, and liability issues for iPad use in public libraries.