One of the best sources for browsing contemporary children's books is the CBC's own examination library. Open to the public, the library houses about 10,000 books, and for years it has been a resource for editors, authors, illustrators, and those who aspire to become part of children's publishing. The CBC library includes books published by our members in the current year and the year immediately preceding the current year, making it a fantastic resource for observing industry trends.
The Collection
Along with contemporary books, the CBC library has complete collections of major children's book award-winners, including:
- Mildred L. Batchelder Award
- Caldecott Medal and Honor books
- Coretta Scott King Award
- National Book Award and Short-Listed Books
- Newbery Medal and Honor books
- Michael J. Printz Award
- Robert F. Sibert Award
Along with these award-winning books, the CBC library houses a permanent collection containing volumes on the history of publishing and biographies of prominent industry figures. The CBC library carries subscriptions to over twenty industry trade and educational periodicals; including a permanent collection of past Publishers Weekly "Children's Announcements" issues; every issue of The Horn Book dating back to 1924; and member publishers' current and recent past seasonal and backlist catalogs.
After abandoning the card catalog system almost a decade ago, Summer 2007 marked the introduction of the CBC library's online catalog. CBC library users can search the online catalog by title, author, phrase, keyword, or topic. The catalog entries include the location of specific titles within the CBC library and book publication information.
The CBC library is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though it is closed on holidays and occasionally for CBC events. Groups of more than three who wish to visit the CBC library are asked to telephone (212) 966-1990 first to ensure that there are no other groups visiting that day, as space is limited. Individuals are welcome whenever the library is open.