For immediate release | May 21, 2018

Fostering wellness through physical literacy programs

91ý

CHICAGO — By helping patrons view the library in a new way, movement-based programs bring new people into libraries, help promote community health, and stimulate literacy for children and adults alike. And the data show that they work: nearly 90% of public libraries said their movement-based programs had brought new users into their libraries, according to a recent study, while 80% said the programs contributed to community building. “,” published by 91ý Editions, is a new all-in-one guide by Jenn Carson, a professional yoga teacher who has been leading movement-based programs in schools, libraries, and museums for over a decade. Her book:

  • describes the concept of physical literacy and explains why it matters, using both research and library testimonials;
  • shares tips for building enthusiasm among library staff, training, marketing, partnering with community organizations, and handling patron feedback;
  • shows how to get started regardless of staffing or budget limitations, with hints for sneaking physical literacy into existing spaces and initiatives;
  • includes programs for children and families, such as ABC Boom!, storytime fun runs, and a healthy nutrition lecture and tasting;
  • outlines a Water Wars! party, a Quidditch match, an earth walk, and other programs that convert teens’ energy into healthy movement;
  • demonstrates ways that adults can also get moving, from gym passes and walk/run clubs to ballroom dancing;
  • guides libraries on involving special populations through outreach and inreach; and
  • provides checklists for prep, teardown, tie-ins, and followup.

Carson is director of the L.P. Fisher Public Library in Woodstock, New Brunswick, Canada. Creator of the website , she was named the inaugural member of the advisory board. She also blogs about her physical literacy adventures at the 91ý’s Programming Librarian website: .

purchases fund advocacy, awareness and accreditation programs for library professionals worldwide. 91ý Editions and 91ý Neal-Schuman publishes resources used worldwide by tens of thousands of library and information professionals to improve programs, build on best practices, develop leadership, and for personal professional development. 91ý authors and developers are leaders in their fields, and their content is published in a growing range of print and electronic formats. Contact 91ý Editions at (800) 545-2433 ext. 5052 or editionsmarketing@ala.org.

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Contact:

Rob Christopher

Marketing Coordinator

91ý

91ý Publishing

rchristopher@ala.org

(312) 280-5052