Pearl’s Picks

By Kathy Ishizuka -- School Library Journal, 10/1/2006

Celebrity librarian Nancy Pearl— the author most recently of More Book Lust (Sasquatch, 2005) and model for the first librarian action figure—has another new enterprise. Called Pearl’s Picks, the online feature will offer an array of choices to tempt readers of all ages.

“These picks will not be available on my own Web site,” says Pearl of the subscription-based service. So far, nine library systems have signed on to carry Pearl’s Picks on their Web sites. They include libraries in King County, WA, Phoenix and Scottsdale, AZ, Las Vegas, NV, and Louisville, KY.

Pearl says she’ll post six book recommendations two times each month. “They will include one or two titles for younger readers, ranging from picture books to books for teens.” Individuals can subscribe for $25 a year by e-mailing nancy@nancypearl.com.

“We’re delighted to offer Pearl’s Picks to our patrons,” says Bill Ptacek, director of the King County Library System. “Nancy is a gifted librarian, and her enthusiasm for books and reading is irresistible.”