UPDATE: The Brooklyn Public Library has just announced a groundbreaking initiative to enhance childhood literacy, securing a total of $380,000 in funding. This includes a $200,000 grant from the Heckscher Foundation for Children and $180,000 from Assemblymember Robert Carroll, aimed at expanding literacy programs and providing essential phonics books across library branches in Brooklyn.
This funding marks a significant step forward, positioning BPL as one of the first major library systems to fully integrate decodable books into its collection. Decodable books are designed specifically for beginning readers, featuring simple passages that emphasize specific phonics patterns.
Assemblymember Carroll emphasized the importance of collaboration between schools and libraries, stating, “Our schools and libraries need to work in tandem when it comes to literacy education, and it is wonderful to see BPL so fully embracing evidence-based practices. I can’t wait to see libraries throughout Brooklyn stocked with the decodable readers that this funding will provide.” This initiative is set to transform early literacy education in the borough, making reading resources more accessible to children.
Partnering with The Reading Institute, the Heckscher Foundation’s grant will also equip librarians and staff with essential knowledge and tools that align with the Science of Reading. This partnership aims to create resources for caregivers, enhancing early reading development at home.
Dr. Katie Pace Miles, founder and president of The Reading Institute and associate professor of reading science at Brooklyn College, highlighted the pivotal role of libraries in communities, stating, “They are often the first place families turn for books, storytime, and early learning. By elevating Brooklyn Public Library programs and activities that support the science of reading, we can help families implement simple, joyful ways to support a literacy-rich environment at home.”
This funding initiative is not just about books; it represents a commitment to fostering a love of reading from an early age, ensuring that children in Brooklyn have the tools they need to succeed. With the integration of these resources, families can look forward to an enriched literacy experience that transcends the library walls.
What’s Next: As this initiative rolls out, residents can expect enhanced literacy programs and resources available at their local libraries. The community is encouraged to engage with these new offerings, which promise to make a significant impact on childhood literacy rates across Brooklyn.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops!
