READ Design Studio adds Genres and Subjects to its product line

Contact: Katharine Fronk


ALA Graphics Coordinator


ALA Graphics


312-280-2427


kfronk@ala.org

For Immediate Release


October 20, 2009

CHICAGO— There are now nearly infinite ways to appear on a customized READ Poster thanks to READ® DVD Genres & Subjects from ALA Graphics, the latest addition to the READ Design Studio. With input from more than 100 librarians, the product features artwork inspired by 23 popular genres and subjects—all packed economically onto one DVD. Fantasy, mystery, cooking, sci-fi, and horror are just a few of the represented reading favorites.

From the idea that “Everyone is a celebrity when they READ,” the READ Design Studio products have given license to users to create ALA’s trademarked celebrity READ posters featuring home-town celebrities, students, librarians, staff, and local leaders. The first READ CD, which debuted in 2004, was closely followed by a second, and in 2007, the best-selling READ CD Box Set including Adobe Photoshop Elements was released. Collectively these products form the READ Design Studio.

Communities across the nation have used the READ Design Studio to promote their libraries, the power of reading, and the people who do it. To read more about these stories, see poster examples, and get technical tips, visit the
READ CD Blog.

“ALA Graphics is really excited about the expansion of the READ Design Studio. The inspiration for Genres & Subjects came in part from seeing the creative ways our customers have used the first two READ CDs,” says Rachel Johnson, director of ALA Graphics. “One school library media specialist used the READ CD Box Set with class book reports. Students dressed up in character, posed with their books, and then used the photo to create a themed READ poster.”

A list of creative ideas for using Genres & Subjects is included with the disc and can also be found at
http://www.alastore.ala.org/readcdinfo/. The list offers tangible ways to use the art files beyond creating just posters and bookmarks. For example, signage to promote library events, announce staff picks, and guide patrons through the library, can easily be made with any of the READ Design Studio discs.

Find the
READ DVD Genres & Subjects at the
ALA Store where your purchases fund advocacy, awareness, and accreditation programs for library professionals worldwide.

ALA Graphics supports the ALA mission through the creation and distribution of quality products promoting libraries, literacy, lifelong learning, and reading. ALA Graphics develops products based on customer need, including products that support the key action areas of the Association: diversity, education and continued learning, equity of access, intellectual freedom, and 21st-century literacy.