Who better than librarians – the book experts -- to start a podcast about books? And Springfield-Greene County Library staff have done just that for middle-grade and teen readers everywhere.
It’s a first for the Library district and gives staff an opportunity to promote great reads in an exciting, new format relatable to teens.
Planet Book Podcast launches on Thursday, Jan. 14, on the Apple Podcasts and Spotify platforms. New episodes will air every Thursday. Listeners can also visit the Planet Book website, thelibrary.org/planetbook, which also includes the podcasts and related booklists.
Each week for 10 weeks, a librarian host is joined by various guests as they share their latest favorite middle grade and teen books. Each 10- 15-minute episode features librarian guests who share book recommendations and inside scoops on some popular ‘tween and teen reads. Charity Jordan, a youth services staffer at the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch Library, oversees the project and will serve as host of episodes planned later this year.
"It's more important than ever that we reach readers where they are, and the Planet Book Podcast is a great way to do that," Charity said. "Listeners will get to hear recommendations on all types of children and teen books, and are sure to find some favorites as we talk about the books we love."
The episodes feature everything from sci-fi/fantasy to thrillers, and topics pertinent to young readers including bullying, LGBTQ issues, and relationships.