In the library's database list you can find NoveList, a database that assists fiction readers with finding authors and titles, and NoveList K-8 which is geared towards YA and children's books. Use these databases to find award winners and nominees. We own most Caldecott and Newbury award winners, in addition to many other award winners.
You can then choose between specific awards, or browsing all award winners and notable books.
Selecting a title will either take you to a list of the awards, or the award winners. Don't forget to view the other nominees.
Then pop on over to our library catalog to see if we own those books.
NoveList and NoveList K-8 also contain many professional book reviews. Search by keyword or title to find a particular book. Then scroll to the bottom to see the reviews.
Reading multiple reviews is important, as each publication has a different perspective. Here are some of the publications you will see in NoveList:
Booklist - This publication is designed for public and school libraries, the reviews will often include a suggested grade level.
Library School Journal - This publication is for school librarians, this is one of the more critical publications featured in NoveList.
Kirkus - A more general book review publication, they also review books for adults.
Publishers Weekly - These tend to be the shortest and generally least critical reviews of the bunch.
Horn Book Magazine - This magazine is well regarded in the area of children's literature