The Passive Programming Playbook

June 1, 2021

This compendium of ideas focuses on ways to engage patrons through self-directed activities, otherwise known as passive programming. Starting with the why and the how, librarians Willey (an SLJ reviewer) and Amaral (a Library Journal 2016 Mover & Shaker) smartly give library staff the tools to both offer passive programming and convince administration of its importance. They provide templates of program archetypes, such as name generators, polls, and scavenger hunts, as well as ideas for weekly themes (e.g. "Media Monday"), pop culture and holiday tie-ins, and special space uses. A brief section discusses adaptations for COVID-19 and preparing for other "panicky times." Whatever the topic, examples are infinitely customizable, and the authors suggest ways to tweak ideas to spark even more creativity. The optimistic, conversational tone keeps the subject approachable and the programs doable. Most activities are quickly described, including just enough information without doing all the work for readers. Programs requiring significant prep time, however, helpfully include diverse booklists and samples. "Instant Replay" sidebars and occasional photographs connect with real-library examples. Resources, bibliography, and index are appended. However, for all the consideration Willey and Amaral give to issues of sensitivity and inclusion, sections on Harry Potter Book Night and Dr. Seuss Day do not reflect recent controversies surrounding those authors' works. Similarly, disabilities and, aside from references to Pride, LGBTQIA+ identities aren't as widely included as other identities in examples throughout. VERDICT Chock-full of ideas and inspiration, this book is a (mostly) great resource for library staff looking to creatively increase all-ages patron engagement.-Alec Chunn, Eugene Public Library, OR

Copyright 2021 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2021

For those who work in libraries, "programming" tends to mean gathering people in a group to listen to a speaker or learn a new skill. In this guide, Willey (Enoch Pratt Free Lib., Baltimore) and YA librarian Amaral expand that definition to include passive programming, which describes activities that library patrons can engage in on their own. In Part 1, they explain why passive programs are good for both patrons and libraries: they're inclusive, adaptable, and budget-friendly; they improve outreach; and many libraries will already have the necessary supplies. The section also lays out best practices, outlines types of passive programming, and recommends ways to keep track of and share important statistics to raise the library's profile. In Part 2, Willey and Amaral group the activities into chapters around various themes and suggest strategies for offering these activities remotely. The appendix lists recommendations for supplies and where to source them. VERDICT Packed with great ideas that require little money or staff time, this volume will appeal broadly to library program planners, particularly those on tight budgets and those who want to expand patron participation.--Sara Holder, Univ. of Illinois Libs., Champaign

Copyright 2021 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 25, 2022
This engaging and practical guide has literally hundreds of ideas that Willey and Amaral have found or created. The authors start by stating several benefits of passive programming: building relations with library users (called "customers" in the book) and community at large, increasing cost- and time-effectiveness, promoting literacy, garnering teen interest, increasing adult engagement, facilitating inclusive service, providing concurrent programs, and extending existing programming. Passive programming does not consist of displays or even makerspaces per se. The key is guidance or prompts that spark user creativity to engage in learning and expression. To that end, the authors list several easily available low-cost resources, with doable suggestions on how to optimize their use. They stress the importance of clear rules, informed staff, incentives, and participant contact information. One chapter provides templates for different kinds of passive programs, each noting the activity and associated resources. Another chapter focuses on gathering and analyzing programming data in order to maximize results and garner more administrative and community support. Part II provides 101-plus specific ideas to consider, grouped thematically--including ideas for panicky times. Most of the programs assume physical in-library use; one chapter explicitly deals with special spaces for passive programs. Occasional booklists and tables as well as black-and-white photos help to concretize ideas. The book concludes with a one-stop list of resources, a bibliography, and an index. The authors write with clarity and enthusiasm. Both public and school librarians can get inspired by these fun ideas; teen library councils could also have a great time designing and implementing these passive programs.

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