Frances Jenkins Olcott

Frances Jenkins Olcott (1872 – 29 March 1963) was a pioneering figure in children's librarianship. She was the first head librarian of the children's department of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh in 1898, and she played a major role in the development of children's libraries and services across the United States.

Olcott was born in Paris, France, to American parents. She returned to the United States with her family when she was young, and she grew up in New York City. She attended Vassar College, where she studied English and history. After graduating from Vassar, Olcott worked as a teacher for several years.

In 1898, Olcott was hired as the first head librarian of the children's department of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. She quickly made a name for herself as a visionary leader in children's librarianship. She developed innovative programs and services for children, including storytime programs, puppet shows, and summer reading clubs. She also worked to create a welcoming and inviting environment for children in the library.

Olcott's work in children's librarianship had a major impact on the field. She is credited with helping to establish the standards for children's libraries and services that are still in use today. She also played a key role in the development of the American Library Association's Children's Services Division.

Olcott retired from the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh in 1935. She continued to work in children's librarianship after her retirement, and she served as a consultant to libraries across the United States. She died in 1963 at the age of 90.

Olcott's Principles

Olcott was guided by a number of principles in her work as a children's librarian. These principles included:

• The importance of making libraries accessible to all children, regardless of their background or circumstances.
• The belief that children are capable of independent learning and should be encouraged to explore and discover new things.
• The value of storytelling and other creative activities in promoting literacy and learning.
• The importance of creating a welcoming and inviting environment in libraries where children feel safe and comfortable.

Olcott's Notable Works

Olcott wrote and edited a number of books and articles on children's literature and librarianship. Her most notable works include:

• The Books, Children and I (1929): A memoir of her career in children's librarianship.
• The Children's Hour (1929): A collection of essays on children's literature.
• The Library and the Child (1936): A guide to children's librarianship.

Olcott's Philosophy

Olcott believed that libraries should be places where children could explore and discover new things. She encouraged children to be independent learners and to take ownership of their own education. She also believed that storytelling and other creative activities were important in promoting literacy and learning.

Olcott's Legacy

Olcott is remembered as a pioneer in children's librarianship. She helped to establish the standards for children's libraries and services that are still in use today. She also played a key role in the development of the American Library Association's Children's Services Division.