[Michlib-l] New Report on Family Engagement at Public Libraries

[Lancaster, Catherine (MDE)]

Overview: http://www.ala.org/news/press-releases/2016/08/new-report-family-engagement-public-libraries-harvard-family-research-project

"Libraries are supporting families and building pathways for promoting their children's lifelong learning. Beginning in the early years, public library services such as story time and early literacy programming help children get ready for school. Libraries serve as pillars for school-age children's afterschool and summer learning experiences and invite families to participate in diverse activities, from engaging in maker spaces and digital media labs to exploring healthy lifestyles. Through offerings in adult education, job seeking and computer skills, libraries are reinventing themselves as hubs of two-generation learning. According to Clara Bohrer and Kathleen Reif, co-chairs of the Public Library Association's Family Engagement Task Force, "family engagement goes well beyond the support of early literacy and our youngest children, and encompasses the wide range of services offered by libraries for families and children of all ages."

Furthermore, libraries are essential community partners in contributing to more equitable learning opportunities for children living in poverty or from low-income homes. For the many children without preschool experience, libraries fill gaps in their access to guided and research-based early learning experiences. For those without access to afterschool programs, libraries offer safe spaces for homework help and enrichment. And for those who are underconnected, free access to high-speed Internet connections and quality digital media and technology makes learning tools available."
The full report can be found at: http://www.hfrp.org/family-involvement/projects/libraries-for-the-21st-century-it-s-a-family-thing

Cathy Lancaster

Youth Services Coordinator
Library of Michigan
517-335-8129
517-373-5700 f
LancasterC5 at michigan.gov<mailto:LancasterC5 at michigan.gov>

Nourishing Michigan's Future...during school and during the summer!  Find a Summer Food Service Program site nearest you and encourage Michigan's children to Meet Up and Eat Up!    www.michigan.gov/meetupeatup<http://www.michigan.gov/meetupeatup>

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