Snohomish book fair ignites kids’ love of reading
Published 11:13 pm Saturday, September 20, 2008
SNOHOMISH — Kids once turned to “Sesame Street” to make sense of the world. Youngsters today have so many ways to learn that it becomes a challenge to take advantage of them all.
More than 90 public libraries throughout the state hosted an open house Saturday to educate parents about early learning opportunities for children under 5 years old.
The Snohomish Library was one of 20 in the area that participated in the event.
Two tables were set up in the children’s section: one with information for parents, the other one with pencils, bookmarks and other fun giveaways for kids.
“The open house was a very good way for parents to learn about resources. It worked out very well,” children’s librarian Tracy Hayame said.
For example, several visitors learned for the first time about a popular online program called Tumblebooks, Hayame said.
Tumblebooks are animated books kids can watch on their computers, reading along with the highlighted text on each page.
Linda Coram of Lake Stevens was baby-sitting her three of her four grandchildren Saturday and said she was glad to discover the interactive program. “Technology has its disadvantages; we get a little bit lazy. But this program is great because children are actually involved in reading,” she said.
A retired elementary school teacher, Coram said she knows how important reading is at an early age.
Coram said she often reads to her 10-month-old granddaughter. Little Sabrina may not be able to understand yet, but she can absorb language. Learning how to learn will prepare her for school, Coram said.
Christy Anana of Snohomish said it’s up to parents to give children a love for learning.
Anana said her daughters, Isabelle, 9, and Eden, 6, have developed a passion for reading that helps them to be more successful at school
Isabelle said reading has become an important part of her daily life, and during weekly visits to the library with her family, she never leaves without a stack of books.
This week she picked up five or six comic books and books on the Japanese-style of cartooning called Manga. “If I want to relax, I just want to read until my eyes get tired,” she said.
Anana said the local library with all it has to offer definitely played a role in her daughters’ early education. “We are here every week and always look forward to it.”
Reporter Katya Yefimova: 425-339-3452 or kyefimova@heraldnet.com.
