The Children’s Library
What is in the children’s area, and what kind of events happen there.
What can parents expect when they bring their kids?
1000 Books Before Kindergarten
Why should you sign your child up for 1000 Books Before Kindergarten?
to promote reading to newborns, infants, and toddlers
to encourage parent and child bonding through reading
Numerous studies estimate that as many as one in five children have difficulties learning to read. Reading has been associated as an early indicator of academic success. Public formal education does not typically start until ages 5-6. Before then, parents and caregivers are the first education providers during the 0-5 early critical years. The 1000 Books Before Kindergarten challenge is a simple (read a book, any book to your child, with the goal of reading 1,000 before kindergarten) and very manageable endeavor. Sign up at our library using this link.
Do you want an electronic way of keeping track of your child’s books? Use Beanstack - follow this link!
Computers and Electronics
Our children’s room has two computers, specifically for youth use. When signing your child up for a library card, you can give them permission to use the computers, electronic devices and the internet. Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising their children. Internet access for all users, including youth, is not filtered, censored or restricted at the library.
Launchpads
Playaway Launchpads feature high-quality learning apps grouped together by subject area, theme, grade level and age. From math and monkeys to science and superheroes, every Launchpad is an adventure. All apps are preloaded so no internet is needed! Simple to use and secure. The Springfield Town Library collection includes Launchpads for youth ages eight and up.
Wonderbooks
Research shows that hearing and seeing words at the same time can improve reading success rates. Wonderbook gives kids an edge with vocabulary development, phonics, and comprehension, plus encourages deeper engagement with every book. Every Wonderbook is a print book with a ready-to-play audiobook inside. Kids will press play to read along with their favorite books and then switch to learning mode for literacy learning and fun.
The Healing Library
The Healing Library is a series of kits designed to make a family's journey of healing following a trauma easier to navigate and personalize. The kits are designed to be checked out of the library just like a book!
We have different kits for different topics.
The death of a loved one
The death of a pet
Alzheimer’s & your family
What’s in a Healing Library Kit?
Each Kit consists of the following:
A Discussion Guide – with tips for discussing the difficult subject as a family
Activities Guide – consisting of holistic art & play therapy activities to assist in expression, communication, & healing, we recommend you also include the materials to participate in the activities in your kit
Acts of Kindness Guide – featuring proactive activities of community support designed to empower
Community Helpers Guide – with national suggestions and opportunities for local customization, we encourage you to customize this section with local resources
Curated Book Suggestions with Discussion Guides – providing observation and discussion prompts to utilize while sharing for each book provided
How to Use This Kit Guides – for both families and lending organizations providing this wide variety of materials as well as the books and supplies needed to participate in the various activities lending organizations allow families to explore their healing journey without the distraction of added research or shopping. Instead, families can simply share in the experience of healing while engaging in social emotional learning together.