Library hosts literature seminar for children

The Cal State Long Beach University Library Children's Collection is hosting its second Summer Children's Literature Institute June 26 and 27, said Kelly Stidham, director of outreach for the children's collection.

Eight prominent children's literature authors and illustrators will be discussing their books and "the uses of multicultural literature in the classroom as a tool for literacy development," according to the institute's website. Those slated to participate include Charles Temple, Nikki Grimes, Aaron Shepard, and Barbara Wong.

Dr. Sylvia Maxson, who began the annual event, selected the participating authors and illustrators to reflect the theme, which changes every year, Stidham said.

This summer, the institute is focusing on "multicultural literature and its use in the classroom for grades K through 6," Stidham said.

In addition to the guest authors, three faculty members will also be participating in the discussions: Dr. Eileen Klink, chairwoman of the English department, Dr. Mimi Hotchkiss, assistant chairwoman, and Dr. Maxson.
Participants in the institute are mostly teachers of young children and students interested in learning how to teach multicultural literature, Stidham said.

Donations from the institute's sponsors, Scholastic and Harper Collins, provide bags, posters, bookmarks and books for the participants, Stidham said. The authors receive an honorarium through University College and Extension Services.

The registration fee for the seminar, which directly pays for the event, is $45 and includes a hosted lunch both days.