Book cover for The Craft of Librarian Instruction.
Two of our very own librarians here at the Leatherby Libraries have published a new instructional book for library instruction, incorporating acting techniques and presentational skills.
The Craft of Librarian Instruction: Using Acting Techniques to Create Your Teaching Presence
 by Julie Artman, Jeff Sundquist, and Douglas R. Dechow.

We are so proud of Julie Artman, our Chair of the Collection Management Division, and Doug Dechow, our Digital Humanities and Science Librarian! The book is available through the
ALA
website and 
Amazon
, in paperback and on the Kindle. Check it out now!

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“Library instruction is like a theatre performance. You play a role as the instruction librarian. There is a live audience. You may receive reviews or evaluations. Or maybe the teaching experience feels more like an audition—a bit unnerving. In The Craft of Librarian Instruction, join Artman, Sundquist, and Dechow for a fun and creative approach to library instruction as they demonstrate how acting techniques can hone your presentation skills, your teaching style, and your performance to create an invigorating (and stress-free) learning experience for your students.

Through the use of acting methods and techniques, readers will learn how to:


  • Rehearse and prepare for instruction sessions by centering yourself through visualization, memorization, and improvisation

  • Connect with students through personalization and role-playing, and by exploring teacher identity

  • Sharpen a unique teaching presence through reflection and intentional instruction

Vocal and physical preparation and instructional scenarios will reveal potential challenges and pose solutions, and provide tips for deepening your teaching skills. Intended for newly hired instruction librarians, librarians with little or no teaching experience, those dealing with shyness or ‘stage fright,’ as well as more experienced librarians in need of a refreshed perspective, The Craft of Librarian Instruction will add an undeniable star quality to your instructional performance!”