Carlo and the Really Nice Librarian

If children are unfortunate enough to view the library as a vastly strict and confining space, hopefully this book aids in reintroducing the library. As Spanyol writes towards the beginning of the book, "The library was amazing." In the age of television and video games, it's never too early to encourage reading and emphasize the fun and humor often found in books. The library is not a daunting place, and hopefully children begin to enjoy spending time there early on. There seems to be a librarian stereotype. Some think of librarians as the old, mean, glasses-wearing, uptight, shhhhhhh-ing type of character portrayed in books and on TV. As a young librarian, this is a stimga I strive to overcome. Mrs. Chinca is an alligator librarian. Despite her "sharp teeth and claws," she is surprisingly friendly and helpful...even fun! Carlo is amazed at how much she knows about books and how capable she is to suggest books on any topic. If anything, children shouldn't be afraid of the lady behind the desk!! The book is fun, colorfully illustrated and ends with a cute surprise. My only hang up is this: Carlo's Dad leaves Carlo and Crackers alone in the library. Parents please remember that it is never permissible to leave young children anywhere in public unattended--the library included!

Carlo the giraffe loves the new library with its many books and posters, but he's afraid of the librarian with her sharp teeth and claws - until he discovers she too loves books. Very simple drawings accompany the cute story of a little giraffe and an alligator librarian. A treasure to read aloud.