Public libraries have evolved dramatically over the past few decades. No longer are libraries simply book warehouses guarded by shushing librarians. Step into a modern library and you’ll likely discover a vibrant community center, humming with activity, engagement and learning.
Of course, you’ll still find books (lots of them!) and quiet spaces to study or read, but you’ll also find storytimes, classes, book clubs, craft clubs and community events.
One thing that will never change is Grand County Library District’s commitment to early literacy. Providing access to the resources your child needs to thrive and succeed in the digital age is one of our top priorities.
Here are just a few of the resources, both physical and digital, that your library has to offer:
Tonieboxes: A screen-free audio player that allows your child to listen to stories and music without the help of a grown-up. Tonies feature an assortment of colorful, sturdy characters that your child can easily put on top of the Tonie to activate the fun.
A Toniebox is a screen-free audio player that is easy for kids to use.Grand County Library District/Courtesy photo
Playaway Launchpads: Tablets preloaded with educational apps and games targeting a wide array of subjects, skills and ages. Best of all, no internet is needed.
Wonderbooks: Print books with pre-loaded audio content bound into the cover. Children can enjoy hearing their favorite stories read aloud to them with the push of a button. We’ve also recently added new titles for middle schoolers and young adults.
Kanopy Kids: A curated collection of content for children, with a focus on ages 2-8. You can access this by visiting “Online Resources” at GCLD.org, then select “Kanopy Kids” from the options. Best of all, Kanopy Kids allows for unlimited viewing, so there’s no end to the number of programs your child can watch.
Hoopla and Libby by Overdrive: Both Hoopla and Libby have thousands of eBooks and audiobooks for young readers. Hoopla even has a “Kids Mode” which only displays content appropriate for ages 12 and under. Simply download the free apps for instant access to an enormous library of digital content, available anytime, anywhere.
And yes, your library still has all the wonderful physical books and resources you’ve come to expect and love. We’ve recently added new Bob Books to all branch collections. These tiny beginning readers are perfect for small hands and will delight young readers as they discover they can read the words all by themselves. We’ve also expanded our collection of primers, which are books written specifically for beginning readers.
The library district has also added lots of new board games for all ages, which provide great fun for the whole family while teaching valuable skills. And last, but certainly not least, your local library continues to offer loads of great in-person programming for children and families. Visit the programs page on the library district’s website for a full list of storytimes, after-school clubs, music and movement classes, Lego clubs, family movies, Pokémon club and so much more.
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