You may be interested in two preliminary reports about the impact of
early literacy trainings offered several years ago to library staff
around the state.  The reports show a definite change (in the right
direction) in the services that libraries offer.
 
As we all know, the years birth to five are critical to setting the
stage for reading skills and school success.  Colorado's libraries are
proud to be offering services to reach parents and caregivers,
especially those in charge of the 45% of children under six who do not
attend formal childcare.  Working in partnership with educators and
other professionals in early childhood, we are continually striving to
ensure the best start possible for all of the state's children.
 
The two reports are:
 
Training Jumpstarts Early Literacy Services
<http://www.lrs.org/documents/fastfacts/239_Early_Lit%20workshop.pdf>  
No. 239 - June 8, 2006
 
http://www.lrs.org/documents/fastfacts/239_Early_Lit%20workshop.pdf
 
and
 
Early Literacy Initiative Impacts Public Library Services for Young
Children
<http://www.lrs.org/documents/fastfacts/237_Early_Literacy_.pdf>  
No. 237 - April 20, 2006 
http://www.lrs.org/documents/fastfacts/237_Early_Literacy_.pdf
 
Remember that the two pamphlets noted in the "Fast Facts" are available
FREE from the Colorado State Library in both English and Spanish.  They
are "Reading Tips for Parents"
http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdelib/slreadtips.htm and 
"Ready, Set, Go! Kindergarten Readiness" 
http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdelib/Kindergarten_Readiness.htm
 
You can obtain copies by contacting Maura McGrath,
[log in to unmask]  Please include your name, unit, email,
phone, and how/where you plan to use the pamphlets (in a general sense),
as well as numbers of copies of which brochure.
 
An in-depth look at library early literacy efforts will be coming in the
next few months.
 
 
Bonnie F. McCune
Library Community Programs Consultant
[log in to unmask]
   DID YOU KNOW?  Colorado has a total of 1401 school libraries,  
   outnumbering McDonald's restaurants nearly 8 to 1.  
Colorado State Library
201 E Colfax #309
Denver, CO  80203
(v) 303.866.6891, (f) 303.866.6940