Early Literacy Activities in the USA

Abstract

This paper discusses early literacy activities provided in and sponsored by libraries. Some of the factors that impact the lives of the children and families that libraries serve are summarized, including the percentage of the population under 18, racial and ethnic diversity, family structures, percentage of children in childcare, low birth weight, the birth rate for adolescents, percentage of children read to at home, early childhood center enrollment, and ability of children entering kindergarten to recognize letters. A definition of emergent literacy is presented, and the role of public libraries in addressing emergent literacy is discussed. Several early literacy programs provided by public libraries, state agencies, and national associations are described, including programs at the Providence Public Library (Rhode Island), the San Mateo County Library (California), the Multnomah County Library (Oregon), the Duluth Public Library (Minnesota), the Vermont Center for the Book, Motheread, Inc. (North Carolina), and the Association for Library Service to Children. (Contains 16 references.) (MES)