Gather ‘Round the Table

My book is available!

Food is more than just a basic human need—learning about it and enjoying it can be important social activities. With ties to information needs, social justice, and the maker movement, food literacy initiatives are a natural fit for libraries. And, as this book demonstrates, efforts can extend far beyond a hearty collection of cookbooks in the stacks. Food programming such as cooking can be an important tool in helping English language learners discover a practical use for a new language, as well as providing opportunities for socialization and conversation. It can be used to help GED seekers practice basic math. And, playing with food can be a sensory-integrative way to help new parents and their babies learn about healthy food choices. Featuring a multi-pronged approach to incorporating food literacy in public, school, and special libraries, this all-in-one resource

• presents a definition of food literacy that shows how the concept touches upon important topics such as culinary skills, food security, nutrition and dieting, food allergies, health literacy, and food ethics;
• discusses the community impacts of food-related issues;
• walks readers through planning and undertaking a community food assessment, a process that can be used to identify a need, justify a service response, build buy-in and engagement, and plan for the allocation of resources;
• shares a variety of innovative food literacy programs drawn from libraries across the country, from cookbook and recipe clubs to an edible education garden, teen cooking classes, and offsite cooking demos; and
• provides information about additional resources and reference sources relating to the culinary world, including advice on collection development.

Serving up a wholesome combination of food literacy information and ideas, this book will encourage members of your community to gather ‘round the table at the library.

Buy your copy at the ALA Store, or on Amazon.

Learn more about the food literacy consulting I offer here.