This is the first book to provide practical guidance for library staff on virtual storytime planning and production. Learn how to design virtual youth services tailored to patrons in different communities, and how virtual programs serve as a form of community outreach. Included in this guide: Case studies of successful virtual storytime programsCreative examples of potential programs, which can be developed and adaptedSimple tips on how to increase production value, regardless of available space and equipmentFeatures of virtual storytime software with which presenters should familiarize themselvesA comprehensive list of websites, software applications, and assets for creating and sharing virtual programsAn overview of laws concerning online privacy and the use of copyrighted materials in virtual storytimesBackground information and talking points addressing the benefits and drawbacks of screen time for young patronsSample training syllabus, outline, script, and reflection questions for virtual storytime staff Children’s librarians will find useful case studies, tips, and resources in this volume. “Even as libraries have reopened their physical doors after the COVID-19 lockdown, virtual storytimes have continued. This volume, part of Rowman & Littlefield's Practical Guides for Librarians series, helps library workers develop and deliver effective virtual storytimes. Author Ogle is a tech-savvy public and school librarian who works with youth, and this book draws upon her library experience and that of her colleagues…. Ogle includes many practical, detailed tips including addressing issues of accessibility and inclusion. The book can be read as a whole or used as a reference manual when developing virtual storytimes.” ― Booklist “The pandemic added a new option for storytimes and other library activities by opening the world of virtual programming. From policy to planning and execution, through marketing and legal issues, Ogle shows how virtual storytimes can enhance and expand program accessibility. She answers the who, what, why, and how to help librarians expand early literacy opportunites for young children whether programs are live streamed, recorded on video, presented through an app, and are synchronous, or asynchronous.” ―Jeanette Larson, Librarian, Manager, Youth Services (retired), Austin (TX) Public Library Rebecca Ogle began her career as a content writer and digital marketer, before pursuing her passion for library services. Before COVID-19, she focused her outreach efforts on inclusivity and accessibility to literacy programs and resources for low-income and unhoused families. When Phoenix Public Libraries closed to the public, the Early Literacy Outreach Team (ELOT) sprang into action researching and developing a wide range of virtual programs, both pre-recorded and live. Rebecca and her ELOT colleagues earned a Service Excellence Award from the City of Phoenix for their creativity and efficacy adapting library programs for online patrons. While every member of ELOT, and a number of Phoenix Public Library branch staff, brought their own strengths to virtual storytimes, Rebecca discovered a particular knack for engaging audiences in her low-key, soothing style. She is passionate about equity, inclusivity, and access to library resources, and believes virtual storytimes can truly make a difference in every community.