Gleason Memorial Library selected as Family Engagement Project Grantee

OPSR funds 29 libraries to expand infant and toddler resources

Gleason Memorial Library has been selected as one of the Oklahoma Partnership for School Readiness’ (OPSR) Public Library Family Engagement Project grantees. This grant will help launch a 1000 Books Before Kindergarten project and upcoming Mother Goose on the Loose Story Times, both promoting reading to infants and toddlers.  In addition to the Gleason Memorial Library, 28 other awardees were chosen by OPSR as grantees.

“Thanks to this grant we were able to purchase over 120 books and other materials to enrich our collection and promote these two programs.  Des and I are still ordering materials, processing books and preparing the programs for families. We will release more news about the programs and our start dates as soon as possible.”  said Renee Yocum, Director.

Library services are crucial to help young children develop language skills. In fact, brain research has shown that talking, singing and reading can have a positive impact on early speech and language. The Public Library Family Engagement Project’s goal is to equip families with knowledge and offer an early introduction to literature and technology to infants and toddlers. 

“OPSR is proud to work with the Gleason Memorial Library to support stimulating early literacy opportunities for infants and toddlers,” said Debra Andersen, OPSR executive director. “This project wouldn’t have been possible without our partners the Oklahoma Department of Libraries and the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority (OETA). Thanks to the federal Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five, we’re grateful to be able to support libraries across the state and families who are passionate about enriching the lives of their children.”

Libraries selected to participate in this project will expand on existing programs or implement a new one, including OETA’s Ready to Learn; 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten; and Read, Sing, Play. All of which create a positive learning environment, inform families of the importance of reading and promote life-long literacy.

For additional information or questions, contact Gleason Memorial Library 580-662-2528 or message us on Facebook.