If you’ve ever wished for a book fairy godparent, you are in luck! The Aurora Public Library District’s reader’s advisory services are basically that, minus the sparkly wand. Whether you love browsing on your own, want a librarian to handcraft a list just for you, or prefer a little of both; we’re all about matching people with stories they’ll actually love.
Librarians are in the business of connecting readers (and non-readers) to books that they enjoy. “APLD has so many options for readers at all different levels of engagement,” said reader’s services coordinator, Becky. “A lot of library staff are avid readers, and we love to share our suggestions! ”To do that, we need to get to know your likes and dislikes when it comes to things like writing style, characters, and the pace of a story. In short: How do you want this book to make you feel? We can learn these things through a face-to-face conversation at the library, over the phone, via chat, or through our online Book Match service. Filling out a Book Match survey gets you a personalized list, that our staff hand-selects just for you. And with the snap of our fingers, we can even place holds on items for you. It’s the easiest way to find new titles and authors to try!”
If you prefer to make your own magic and want to find books yourself, we have tons of self-serve resources that can be explored in the library and from home. Our librarians enjoy putting together reading lists to share with customers via our Recommendations webpage. These lists are centered around specific genres, topics, celebrations, and more. We even create book lists for fans of popular TV shows, movies, and podcasts! So, if you’re not a reader but would like to be, we can still help you find something you’ll enjoy. And with themes like Deliciously Cozy Mysteries, Time Loop Tales, and Winter Holiday Romances, there’s something for everyone! “For people just getting back into reading for fun and enjoyment, it can be really hard to decide what book to choose!” added Becky. “Our staff-chosen lists give people a great starting place.”
For avid readers, we also offer the NoveList database where you can do a deepdive into a book’s themes, characters, or setting. NoveList is especially great for readers looking for a similar book to one they enjoyed as these read-alikes are chosen and vetted by NoveList’s trained librarians. “We love getting customers excited about the books they picked out, whether it’s a staff suggestion or a title found online,” added Becky. “We also want to hear back on what you liked or didn’t like, so please let us know!”
Another reason to be excited is a new reading activity we’ve been conjuring up! Starting in the new year, adults will be able to participate in a year-long, self-paced reading challenge called ‘Expand Your Shelf’. The challenge is meant to get readers to experience 12 genres and themes. “Once you finish books in all 12 prompts, you get a tote bag—great for carrying all your library materials!” said Becky. Participants can choose their own books for each prompt, and we’ll have resources and lists to help find titles if you’re not sure what to pick. Keep an eye out for more information about Expand Your Shelf in the coming months.
APLD wants to make all your reading wishes come true! With a touch of library magic, you’re never far from a story that feels just right. Our helpful staff is always available for guidance, as is our Recommendations page, www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/recommendations. Feel free to contact us for more information about any of the above services. Just be sure to say the magic words: Bibbity, bobbity, BOOK!
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.