Introducing Bob the Library Bear to the conference audience as the brains of our operation got a chuckle from the crowd, although I noticed a young woman in the front row with bright blue glasses who didn’t laugh. Her arms were crossed in a very “you don’t impress me” stance. I faltered for a moment, squeezed Bob, and continued with my talk about engaging young readers via Story Time, and Bears. The lights were roasting me and I wished I hadn’t chosen to wear a heavy wool sweater.

“Most of you have young library members, and those who don’t will have young relations. The key to encouraging them to read is two-fold. Number one - show don’t tell, and Number two - read to them. It really is that simple, but I’ve been asked to talk for an hour so let me exp...

Please subscribe to keep reading.