Grand Rapids Rotary provides Early Literacy Station to GR Library

The Early Literacy Station is a touch screen computer that allows children to access 50 educational programs organized under seven categories: music/art, reading, social studies/geography, writing/computer skills, math, science and reference. Familiar characters such as word bird and Dora the Explorer make frequent appearances.

Funding for the ELS was provided by the Grand Rapids Rotary club. Throughout its 77 year history in Grand Rapids, the Rotary club has funded numerous scholarships, Leadership Camps, and a myriad of community based projects.

”This project will have an impact on children coming into the library, and will foster a love of reading and learning. We felt it would be beneficial to children and help them develop the skills needed for further educational success,” said Mike Arezzo, Grand Rapids Rotary Club President

 Children can select which activity they want to work on, or parents can help to select programs for their children by choosing a category and an appropriate age bracket. The Early Literacy Stations are also great for special needs children because they have a variety of activities at different levels.

The library has been focusing on promoting early literacy skills by providing preschool story times for children and their care-givers. Children can also sign up for the Library’s summer reading program and attend a variety of events this summer, including storytellers, music, magic shows and movies.