Some Local Libraries Receive Grants for Early Literacy Programs
Wednesday, October 2nd, 2013 -- 8:21 AM
-Forty small and mid-size libraries throughout Wisconsin received $250 grants in late summer to support early literacy projects that encourage reading with young children and their caregivers.The mini-grants are part of a new Growing Wisconsin Readers initiative, coordinated by the Department of Public Instruction?s Public Library Development Team. Library staff members are using the grants to develop an early literacy activity area or launch a ?1000 Books Before Kindergarten? reading program.
?Reading is such a crucial skill for success in life,? said State Superintendent Tony Evers. ?Research tells us that the period from birth to kindergarten is pivotal to early literacy and language development. These grants are helping libraries expand resources to fill early literacy needs.?
The Growing Wisconsin Readers initiative is supported by Library Services and Technology Act funds awarded to DPI by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services. The initiative?s goals are to provide resources to caregivers about how to read effectively with babies, toddlers, and young children. The secondary goal is to visibly showcase ways in which public libraries support early literacy in communities throughout Wisconsin.
Several libraries in our area have been selected for the grant. The Greenwood, Thorp and Black River Falls Public Libraries will receive the $250 grant.
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