Tech-Savvy Reading Promotion

Starred review from September 1, 2019

Retired school librarian Keane provides a wealth of tech-related ideas for promoting reading to kids, but these suggestions easily extend to projects across the curriculum: social studies, social emotional, science, and more. Useful ideas for projects supported by a thorough assortment of tools fill chapters divided into four categories: images, audio, video, and resources. The tools are available through websites, Android apps, and/or IOS apps, and a detailed list of steps lets readers maximize use of the tools in each category. There are tips on animation, green screen photography, virtual and augmented reality, word clouds, GIFs, and memes. Keane provides links to websites where readers can find music, photos, and clip art that are copyright free or in the public domain, but stresses that readers should always check licensing information. The author also discusses numerous photo and video editing apps, from very simple to relatively (but manageably) complex. Public librarians may be frustrated with apps and sites that cater specifically to school staff, but Keane makes it clear which resources are targeted to this population, and there are plenty of fantastic ideas to satisfy every user. VERDICT Packed with information and practically executed, this is an excellent resource for both school and public librarians.-Deidre Winterhalter, Oak Park Public Library, IL

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.