Children whose parents are functionally illiterate are twice as likely as their peers to be functionally illiterate. Libraries have always been a place where parents and children could sample a wide variety of reading choices absolutely free. Services such as story hours, summer reading clubs and special collections are also familiar offerings. Librarians have long been leaders in promoting family literacy activities, recognizing that a child's ability to read well begins in the home. Libraries such as the Veterans Memorial Library in Bismarck, N.D. and the Genesee District Library in Flint, Mich., offer special programs for parents to learn how they can become involved in their children's reading progress.
Libraries offer much more than books to enhance children's learning.
Many also have toys, games and puzzles for loan, puppet shows and plays, special information programs for latchkey children and craft activities. Librarians are leaders in promoting access to computers and other new technology needed to help children succeed in the 21st century.