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April 12, 2018Albany Public Library Hosts Raising a Reader Baby Shower April 22
Free Event for Expectant Parents and Families with Young Children
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 Raising a Reader Baby Shower takes place on Sunday, April 22, from 1 to 3 pm in the 2nd floor community room 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. Each child receives a special tote bag and free book for the family’s home library. For more information, please call the Washington Ave. Branch Youth Services Department at (518) 427-4310.
At the shower, parents also learn about the Raising a Reader 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 Raising a Reader 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 raise readers.
