Growing Readers Baby Shower April 28
Helping parents raise a generation of readers is the goal of Albany Public Library’s annual baby shower event and ongoing early literacy initiative. The Growing Readers Baby Shower takes place on Sunday, April 28, from 1 to 3 pm at the Arbor Hill/West Hill Branch at 148 Henry Johnson Blvd.
The free baby shower 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.
• Each child receives a special tote bag and free book for the family’s home library.
For more information, please call the Arbor Hill/West Hill Branch at (518) 694-0596.
At the shower, parents also learn about the Growing Readers early literacy initiative. This free self-paced program is available at all branches and 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 Growing Readers 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.
The 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 grow their young children’s reading readiness.
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.