The History of the Modern First Library Initiative
We all know and love the classics. Books like Goodnight Moon, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and Harold and the Purple Crayon are favorites for a reason.
But there's a whole canon of new books out there that also deserve a place on kids' shelves.
These stories broaden kids' horizons, provide fresh perspectives, and open windows to new experiences: all the things that great children's books should do. In this spirit, we're pleased to announce the BookPeople Modern First Library initiative. Pairing beloved picture books that will never go out of style along with other favorites that reflect the diverse, global society of the 21st century, we've set out to make building a thoughtful library for any child in your life easy. Come visit our permanent Modern First Library section in our picture book room!
Modern First Library Reflections
Over the years, we've invited some of Austin's local children's book creators, as well as some national voices, to contribute their own thoughts on what it means to build a Modern First Library and why it matters. From booksellers to authors, illustrators, librarians and museum educators, we have many different perspectives on books, publishing, representation, and so much more. Take a look on our blog!
2018 Guest Bloggers include:
- "What is a Modern First Library?" by Meghan Goel, Kids Book Buyer
- "A Story of Skin" by Xelena González, author
- "Books for Current and Future Queens" by Ms. Honey St. Claire, drag queen & storyteller
- "Beyond the Borders of Imagination" by Razieh Araghi, bookseller
- "Sophie's Library" by Faith Weaver, Culture & Arts Education Coordinator at the Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center
- "What's in a Name?" by Sabrina Phillips, Educator at the Blanton Museum of Art
- "Reclaiming our Children's Heritage" by David Bowles, author
- "Creating Lifelong Readers" by Varsha Bajaj, author
Recommendations from the Experts!
To help us launch this new program, a few great children's book authors here in Austin also compiled personal lists of Modern First Library recommendations.
Top row (left to right): Varian Johnson, Liz Garton Scanlon, Chris Barton. Bottom row (left to right): Don Tate, Cynthia Leitich-Smith.
Build Your Own Modern First Library!
Give the gift of great books and help build the next generation of great readers! You can subscribe to our Modern First Library club to receive one year of board books from our curated selection. Plus, you get a BookPeople onesie when you sign up! Questions about the way it works? Email kids_marketing@bookpeople.com
NOTE: ADDITIONAL FEES FOR INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING WILL APPLY.
Over the course of 12 months, you will receive 12 books that are carefully chosen and shipped right to your doorstep. Treat yourself or enroll a dear friend. Only $116 for a year or $66 for 6 months. Select the subscription you want below to add to your cart.
"Your book subscription may be the best gift we ever received for the baby. We love getting them every month!... Thank YOU BookPeople for such a great idea and for picking out great books!" - Jane K, a happy MFL subscriber!