As a librarian, I like to focus on that important (grown up + child) joint media engagement, so I’ve offered an iPad Play program with the following advertising:

Hey, kids! Want to use an iPad? Hey, adults! Want to motivate your child to learn? Call ______ and ask for the librarian at the location you would like to visit. We’ll ask for the subject area you’d like to explore with your child and schedule you for a twenty minute session with the Library’s iPad. Registration and adult ID (valid license, state ID or library card) is required. For kids from age four to those in sixth grade. Child must be accompanied by an adult.
Appointments are available from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

In these iPad Play sessions, I’ve found that adults are looking to librarians for guidance on some good (and free) educational apps. I’m finally keeping a list of great apps here (Tips: Make sure your internet browser is up to date, or it won’t load; Click on “Filter” on the side and then you can click on certain “tags” to bring up certain lists). At this point, the majority of the apps here are for kids–ones that I have used or want to use during programs for kids in the library.

I’ve also written an article for ALSC’s Children and Libraries on apps in the library. The article, which was in the Winter 2012 issue, is called “Play to Learn” and is linked here as well as on my blog.