“It’s our entire book collection,” exclaimed Amy Mikel, the mastermind behind Brooklyn Public Library’s national e-lending program for young readers, Books UnBanned. With a passion for promoting literacy and access to books, Mikel has spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative that is revolutionizing the way young readers engage with literature.
Books UnBanned is a digital platform that offers a diverse and inclusive collection of books for children and young adults. The program was created in response to the growing demand for e-books and the need for more diverse representation in children’s literature. Mikel and her team recognized the power of technology in reaching a wider audience and saw an opportunity to bridge the gap between traditional library services and the digital age.
The program offers a wide range of titles, from classic children’s books to contemporary young adult novels, all available for free download with a library card. But what sets Books UnBanned apart is its commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity. The collection includes books written by authors from marginalized communities, featuring characters from diverse backgrounds and tackling important social issues. This not only provides young readers with a more accurate representation of the world around them but also encourages empathy and understanding.
Mikel believes that access to diverse literature is crucial for the development of young minds. “Books have the power to shape our perspectives and open our minds to new ideas and experiences,” she says. “It’s important for children to see themselves reflected in the books they read, but it’s equally important for them to be exposed to different cultures, beliefs, and experiences.”
The program has been a huge success, with thousands of downloads and positive feedback from both readers and authors. Many have praised Books UnBanned for its commitment to promoting diversity and its user-friendly interface. The program has also received recognition from various organizations, including the American Library Association and the International Literacy Association.
But the impact of Books UnBanned goes beyond just providing access to diverse literature. It has also become a valuable resource for educators and parents. The program offers discussion guides and reading lists for each book, making it easier for teachers and parents to incorporate these titles into their curriculum or reading routines. This not only encourages critical thinking and discussion but also helps to break down barriers and promote understanding among young readers.
Books UnBanned has also partnered with schools and community organizations to promote literacy and provide access to books in underserved areas. Through these partnerships, the program has been able to reach a wider audience and make a positive impact on the lives of young readers.
The success of Books UnBanned has inspired other libraries and organizations to follow suit. Mikel and her team have been invited to speak at conferences and share their expertise and best practices with others. This has helped to create a ripple effect, with more and more libraries and organizations incorporating diversity and inclusivity into their digital collections.
In a world where technology is constantly evolving, it’s refreshing to see a program that harnesses its power for a greater cause. Books UnBanned is not just a collection of e-books, but a movement that is breaking down barriers and promoting diversity and inclusivity in literature. Thanks to Amy Mikel and her team, young readers across the country now have access to a diverse and inclusive library at their fingertips. And that is something to celebrate.
