Chapter 19: What a Real Readers Advisor Does

Readers advisors (RAs) simply put, help readers find books they want to read. However, it is not a simple process. Readers can be very particular about the type of books they enjoy reading. They may prefer a specific genre, topic, author, format, and so on and so on. RAs must be good listeners and have knowledge about different genres and topics. RAs use direct questioning in face-to-face interactions in order to match materials with patrons. RAs also use indirect techniques like using website queries and displays. RAs can create displays that direct readers to specific suggestions. For example:

• "If you like legal thrillers, try..."
• "If you like John Grisham, try ..."
• "If you like female prosecutors, try..."

RA resources can be organized around themes, topics, settings, awards, genre, etc. This helps when readers are searching for those specific topics. These resources do not, however,  help readers who are looking for materials that "appeal" to them. Finding particular books to appeal to some readers will require the RAs to use annotations and reviews. There is no way, even the best RAs, can read everything, but they can assist readers when they use available resources. RAs can also present books or authors to a group of people. Planning author visits is another way RAs can service patrons and meet their needs.

I look forward to this aspect of being a librarian. I am excited to have conversations with patrons about their likes and dislikes and be able to suggest awesome books! This will be another way to share my love for books with others!