What is the true purpose of a library beyond just books? In this inspiring episode of the Picture This Podcast, host Adam Lehrhaupt sits down with award-winning librarian and children's literature advocate Matthew Winner.

Matthew shares invaluable insights from his two decades in education, revealing how he curates a library collection that reflects every student. This episode is a must-listen for elementary teachers and school librarians seeking to:

• Go beyond just reading a book to using it as a springboard for creative activities.
• Engage reluctant readers with graphic novels, non-fiction, and compelling narratives.
• Understand the vital role of professional reviews in building a diverse and impactful library collection.
• Learn how to use picture books to teach essential skills like sequencing stories and understanding audience.
• Hear a powerful reminder of why every book choice we make for children matters.

Discover practical strategies, surprising book recommendations, and the deep "why" behind one educator's mission to make every moment count for students.

Guest Spotlight:
Matthew Winner is an award-winning elementary school librarian, a White House champion of change, and the host of The Children's Book Podcast. He is a passionate advocate for children's literature and the community it creates.

Find Matthew's work here: https://matthewcwinner.com
Listen to The Children's Book Podcast.

Timestamp Breakdown:
1:20 – Why books are more than just stories
3:50 – The librarian’s role in curriculum and skill-building
5:00 – Creating impactful presentations for students
7:10 – Mo Willems' "51% to the reader" philosophy
9:30 – The magic of a collaborative approach to reading
10:45 – Using Narwhal and Jelly to teach sequential storytelling
14:00 – The power of creating comics in a no-fail environment
17:00 – The legacy of a great book and author studies
24:30 – The importance of making every book choice count
31:40 – Librarian's Corner: Tips for curating a diverse collection
42:30 – Finding trust in publishers
46:00 – The multifaceted role of a librarian
51:00 – Every book must count

Books & Authors Mentioned:
I always recommend shopping a local independent bookstore, but if that's not an option you can support the podcast by using the Amazon links below.

• Narwhal and Jelly series by Ben Clanton 
• Dogman by Dav Pilkey 
• Book Comes Home by Rob Sanders 
• Jacob's Missing Book by Sarah and Ian Hoffman 
• Chooch Helped by Andrea L. Rogers  
• Chloe and the Lion by Mac Barnett and Adam Rex 
  
  

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