Guest Author - Diane Claus

Guest author Jeanette Norman

When I learned that our local library was hosting a summer reading program that my 5-year-old son could participate in, I was very excited. Both of my children love books (I also have a 2 ½ year old) and I was looking for ways to get Wesley more interested in learning how to do basic reading skills.

To kick off the event, the library invited the kids to come in and decorate cloth bags with fabric markers. Refreshments were served and stories were being read in every corner. Wesley and Aubrey decorated their bags then set off around the children’s section to fill their bags. When it came time to check them out, I pulled my card out. Wesley said, “Mommy, when do I get my own card to get books?” I looked at the librarian, shrugged and said, “Well why not today, Wes?” He smiled as the librarian put an application on the desk for him. Most libraries make you wait until the child can at least write their first name, but all the librarians at my local branch know us because we visit at least once a week and they see Wes’ enthusiasm when we leave with an armload or more of books.

Getting a library card is a huge step for a preschooler. We may not remember how excited we were when we got our first card, but when you see the look on your child’s face when they have theirs in their hands is so heartwarming. Not only will your child develop an eagerness for reading, but also they learn responsibility. They begin to understand the concept of respecting what is not theirs and taking care of things for others to enjoy. I have noticed that since Wes has been getting books out on his own card, he handles the books differently. I had to laugh the first time he got a book out because it reminded me of an episode of the show Arthur when D.W. gets her first book and didn’t want to mess it up because she thought she wouldn’t be able to get anymore if something happened to the book. Wes made sure his books were neatly stacked every night in the bag he made.

The library program gives out little prizes for reading a certain number of books each week and Wesley hasn’t missed a week yet. He is learning more letters through recognition and is finally recognizing certain simple words. I never thought a little piece of plastic could make such a difference in a child’s learning! Check with you local library what stipulations they have about preschoolers getting library cards and watch your child’s love for reading begin!

See also these other great articles about the library from other BellaOnline Editors!

Make Your Library A Favorite Summer Vacation Spot
From Taisha Turner
BellaOnline's Children's Books Editor

Home Schooling and the Public Library
From Paula Laurita
BellaOnline's Library Sciences Editor