There is something priceless about being a child set loose among rows upon rows of books. Even if the child isn’t a big reader, having the freedom to explore the aisles of shelves and choose which books to read goes beyond being entertained for a few minutes, like how the library itself is more than just a place to get books.
An opportunity for a kid to gather up a stack of books and read them (either right then and there or at home) might spark a lifelong interest in reading, which is very healthy for their cognitive development. It also gives them a chance to discover their personal interests and practice making their own choices.
Most libraries have an area with little tables and chairs for kids to read, giving you the chance to sit back with your own book and relax. Best of all, libraries are 100% free.
But it would be an absolute crime to say that checking out books is the extent of what the library has to offer. Events, programs and classes are what keep libraries alive in the modern world. For community libraries, families are a huge demographic, so a lot of events are targeted at kids. What libraries offer is extended to all ages, from babies to seniors. Usually, reading is the focus, but a plethora of other activities get their time in the spotlight, too.
Since each library gets to organize its own events, the specific events available depend on the county. Generally, super common events are story time and read-alongs. These kinds of activities are good for younger kids, especially those making the transition from listening to books to actually reading them.
For older kids, libraries can offer summer reading programs, including those targeted at older kids with special needs who might need additional help. Classes for parents and homeschooling events are also often available.
Despite having been a staple of community engagement for centuries, the sad fact is that American libraries have seen a dramatic decline in attendance within the past decade. Because of this, libraries are broadening their horizons regarding what kind of events and programs they offer.
Arts and crafts, puppet shows and even science experiments are among the kinds of activities libraries organize to generate more interest in the community. Some put together baby-friendly classes to help them communicate, or just have fun.
One of the coolest things is the variety of classes libraries offer, especially ones for older kids and teens. A library is a place that fosters a passion for learning, and its programs aren’t limited to books. Skills like coding, art and animation are taught in a hands-on environment that gives children a foundation for the rest of their lives. Many volunteers are eager to teach the younger generation new hobbies, like tabletop games, trading cards and more advanced crafts for adolescents. These kinds of events might give your kids an interest in something that will help them find a career. Or, at the very least, it’ll introduce them to new friends, mentors and a community.
Bethany Brewer is an Orlando-based creative writer and an editorial intern at Connecting Mothers Initiative. She has a B.A. in English from the University of Central Florida and uses it to write blogs, short stories and video game scripts.
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