Growing Readers Baby Shower April 24
Helping parents raise a generation of readers is the goal of Albany Public Library’s annual baby shower event and new early literacy initiative. The annual Growing Readers Baby Shower takes place on Sunday, April 24, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the large auditorium of the Washington Avenue Branch at 161 Washington Avenue.
The free event is for expectant parents, new parents, and parents of preschool-age children—and their offspring. Adults learn tips and tools to make reading fun, and also access parenting resources from local organizations. Children enjoy stories, crafts, and active play. The shower also features activities and giveaways, refreshments, shower games and prizes, and a free book. For more information, please call the Washington Ave. Branch Youth Services Department at 427-4310.
At the shower, the library will also kick off its new Growing Readers early literacy initiative. This free self-paced program, available at all branches, encourages parents to read to children ages five and younger. The goal is for each participant to read at least 1,000 books to his or her children before they start kindergarten. This prepares children to read on their own and helps strengthen their vocabulary and language skills. Through the APL program, parents track the number of books they read to their children (even if the same book is repeated) and return tracking sheets to the library in exchange for prizes and fresh tracking sheets. The Growing Readers early literacy program also provides parents with tips for reading to babies and young children, as well as book suggestions. APL librarians are also available to help parents in their efforts to raise readers.
Stephanie Simon
Stephanie Simon is manager of APL's Communication and Creative Services Department, which provides content and information for the library's website, social media, publications, videos, podcasts, and other outlets. Stephanie also manages APL's public relations and marketing efforts.