Libraries Need Love, Too!

In this day and age of computers, electronic teaching toys, and educational DVDs, public libraries may seem too old-fashioned to be of use to parents of younger children. (Or even older children, as they no longer have to go to the library to do research.) I think that is far from the truth!

Reading to your child is more beneficial than any electronic “teaching” device could ever be. You need to open up the world of books for your child. No matter how advanced our society may get, I can almost guarantee that reading and books will be around for a very long time. And learning to read from real books, (not something with the name Leap Frog on it), is essential to succeed in life, through school and beyond.

Books also open up a world of communication and topics that may have never come up in life. Books help a child learn and grow, discover new worlds, languages, people, and more.

Just as bookstores have evolved to keep pace with out lifestyles and interests (e.g., Starbucks in your local Barnes and Noble), libraries have also changed to meet the needs of today’s families. Few other places offer the resources and expertise to help us introduce our youngest learners to the exciting world of reading.

Many parents do not want to bring their young children to a library, for fear they will not be quiet or will disturb other patrons. But today’s libraries, unlike those that we knew as young children, are no longer no-talking zones. Most public libraries now have story times, dedicated children’s areas, puzzles, toys, games, and more for their youngest patrons. Now children can enjoy library time, and not worry about getting into trouble. Libraries with a dedicated children’s area even have chairs, couches, bean bag chairs, child-sized tables, and more to make the children feel comfortable in their environment.

Bring your children to the library today, and open up a whole new world for them.

Mom of 4, one who’s already flown the nest. Author, blogger and social media manager.