ABOUT THE LIBRARY
IMCPL's New Storytime Initiative: Reading Across the Ages!
September 18, 2006
Storytime at the Southport Branch
Babies, toddlers, preschoolers and parents can visit their local branch library throughout the week to explore a world of words, pictures and songs during the Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library's regularly scheduled free storytime programs.
With the Library's renewed emphasis on early literacy, the storytime programs are intended to introduce young children to language concepts and help them develop into enthusiastic readers, while giving parents the skills and motivation to read to their children.
IMCPL children's librarians use picture books to read nursery rhymes or popular stories in young children's literature. They also lead participants in songs or fingerplays to encourage communication and interaction with the subject.
"Children learn about language and the world around them from being read to," according to Linda Mielke, IMCPL Chief Executive Officer. "We want parents and families to come to the library and let us help in making learning fun and turning young open minds into successful readers," she added.
Experts agree that the single most important activity for building eventual success in reading is reading aloud to children. Those who are read to regularly are shown to have superior vocabulary and reading skills. Many experts believe that children should be exposed to as many as 1,000 books before starting school to help ensure learning success.
The Library's storytime programs also incorporate the concept of play which allows youngsters to have fun with learning through rhymes, songs and movement activities.
"Young children will learn when they're engaged in a fun activity," said Mielke. "Our programs are designed so children and parents can enjoy together what the world of books provides."
IMCPL branches throughout Marion County provide storytime programs for each age group: babies, toddlers and preschoolers. A parent or other caregiver is asked to accompany their children and participate in the programs. Most of these programs are scheduled in the mornings or early afternoons.
Special storytime programs for the entire family are presented during the evenings and occasionally on Saturdays.
All programs are free and no registration is required.
For a schedule of storytime programs at your local branch, call or visit the library, or check the calendar of upcoming events on the Library's website.
