Guys Read Preconference

The Guys Read Preconference – divvied into a keynote and 5 panels.

My interest in Guys Read stems mainly from being a guybrarian. Our library has already initiated the program, but I was looking to gain a deeper understanding of the goals and issues that make-up the movement. As a member of the Adult Reference staff, I was a bit concerned about the relevance of my presence – especially considering our already sailing efforts. But I do serve the young adult population and I am the only guybrarian between the two branches – so I am reconciling my guilt and recognizing the generosity of my library in allowing me to attend. I’m leaving the preconference with fresh knowledge looking to be turned to wisdom. I will share what information I can here –

These are admittedly – very – very shorthand notes and observations. The preconference packet contained numerous handouts – which probably dissuaded me from taking stellar notes. Basically I’m just gonna capture the salient points from the day — those that stuck with me – because I’m a selfish prig. Perhaps not the best use of the word prig – but its use is what mattered to me in this moment. I’ll make separate posts for the different panels at some point later today – but for now just an incredibly brief mention of the keynote:

Jon Scieszka, children’s author and founder of Guys Read opened with some lighthearted but pointed commentary detailing the need for the program, spotted with points that would be reiterated throughout the day. Goals were identified – how to pitch it to your library, and how to get the funding. One benefit of libraries getting involved with the Guys Read program is that we aren’t tied down by curriculum or parenting – we are free to be the other – allowing the guys to read whatever they like, be it novels, graphic novels, magazines, and video game narratives. It’s the reading that’s important.

Brevity.