Gwella returns to training they know makes a difference

As a result of Talking with readers, I am much more aware of the positive aspects of book conversations and am more intentional about taking and creating opportunities. I learned the importance of listening. Not forcing or manipulating conversations but utilising opportunities as they arise in the course of the day. Being sensitive to different people and personalities and aware of body language and eye contact. Sometimes people are keen to talk and others are not. Building relationships with readers is key so that they feel comfortable and happy to talk and value our recommendations.

One difference Putting readers first has made is that our displays are more interactive with bookmarks, wrapped books and a sign encouraging readers to choose books for the display. We have also introduced a reading element to the end of our rhyme time session, encouraging our customers to share what they have been reading.

I enjoyed the interactive aspects of Playing your part in the library welcome, the fact that it wasn't just reading chunks of information. I liked that there were tasks to do in the library as the course progressed, with the ability to compare before and after.

I have really enjoyed how interactive the course is and it has definitely broadened my knowledge not just as a library assistant but as a reader. I now rely less on posters and decorations and allow books to sell themselves through their covers and titles. I make sure our displays are inclusive and that we're including books that maybe are less known or a new genre to make them more visible.

I have gained a lot of knowledge and many different ideas which have really made me think about how to promote the library both in branch and online. I have learned some useful tips for how to create displays which I'd never thought of. Going forward I will endeavour to include a 50-50 mix of books that I would read alongside books that I would not read to guarantee a wider appeal.

This course has made me think differently about the way I approach talking with customers. They are simple techniques but putting them into action enables you to see what works and what doesn't. That has given me the confidence to interact more and ask more questions with customers, then to come up with innovative ideas for displays and promoting our services and not be afraid if they don't work.

I have learned so much: the best techniques for approaching customers without coming off as too overbearing, simple questions that make customers feel seen and part of the library community; the tools to create stunning display cases of books that might need extra TLC to standout on the bookcase - I'm not afraid to experiment with different shelving techniques and keep the library updated and fresh for regular customers; and I now have my own step by step guide of how to keep the library area looking clean, fresh and a welcoming space for all who enter.

I thought the course was very informative and interesting. It made me rethink of how I can not only merchandise the bookshelves as the course intended but it as made me rethink my role as a library assistant. How I can make the bookshelves stand out, from fiction to non-fiction both adults and children's. It will also make my day to day work more exciting as i will always be on the look out of how I can change things up, introduce exciting new titles and new authors to our readers and make the shelves look and feel more pleasing to our customers.

Would I recommend this training to other Library Assistants to complete? Definitely! I think the information is provided in a fun and engaging way and I always feel like I've learned something new from an Opening the Book course.