A key part of the library’s core mission is helping children develop a love of reading. Studies have proven that reading achievement contributes to academic success, employment opportunities and a more fulfilling life — and your library team is here to help! Early fall is a time our youth services staff experience a reset from busy Summer Reading programming and renew their commitment to serve child care providers.
It is impossible to include in one article all the ways we serve our communities’ children and their caregivers. Most are aware of the story times and other programs we provide in our libraries. Hopefully you have seen our Book Rover or Bookmobile, Jr. around the community, too. These vehicles are out and about bringing books and programs to children in child care centers.
We provide in-school programs by authors and entertainers a few times a year. And, library staff also arrange for “clock-hour” training for child care providers to help them with learning engagement skills and certification.
Our reading incentive programs such as 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten help prepare children for school success by having books read to them. We circulate STEAM kits and other early learning kits for kids who learn best through hands-on engagement.
Our digital branch offers robust literacy support, including the Brainfuse tutoring service, TumbleBook Library (animated digital picture books), LOTE4Kids (stories in many languages), recommended reading lists and more. Our branches offer interactive play areas for families who need a change of scenery, with library staff at the ready to help.
I am proud of the work we do for children, proud of our staff, and proud to live in a library service area with patrons who support us. Thank you — there is truly something for everyone at your library!
Margaret M. Conroy, Executive Director of the Daniel Boone Regional Library