Early Literacy at SCLSNJ

Discovering and using language, reading, and writing are essential to a child’s development and future success in school. Early literacy is not “teaching reading”, but rather a process of engaging children in playful and interactive experiences that encourage them to explore sounds, stories and meanings before they can actually begin to read and write. Reading to and talking with children, and singing and playing together with them are important ways you can help promote literacy. The library has resources that can help!

Storytimes Programs at SCLSNJ

Whether you are coming to the library to choose a story to read with your child, or to attend one of the many scheduled storytimes, reading aloud helps children develop vocabulary, letter awareness, sounds and listening skills. Check out all the storytimes available through the SCLSNJ:

[Calendar with branch storytimes–one day view, ability to click through to full calendar of events; http://somerset.evanced.info/signup/Calendar]

Interactive Programs at SCLSNJ

There are many interactive programs featuring music, art, animals, cooking, at the library for children and their parents/caregivers. These shared activities offer great opportunities for you and your child to listen, ask questions and share stories together. See what’s happening at your library:

[Calendar with branch programs–one day view, ability to click through to full calendar of events; http://somerset.evanced.info/signup/Calendar]

Learning Through Play

Many of the SCLSNJ branches offer toys and materials for engaging imagination and language through dramatic play. Bound Brook, Bridgewater, Hillsborough, Mary Jacobs, Peapack Gladstone, Somerville, Warren, and Watchung offer a variety of toys from puzzles and puppets to games and craft centers.

Suggested Stories for Children

See what’s available at your library! Subscribe to lists of library materials just for children. Book titles are linked to the catalog, so you can easily reserve what you want to read next.

Parent-Teacher Resources

A list of books to help parents, caregivers and educators introduce children to literacy.

Databases and Electronic Resources 

Search our databases and electronic resources to find everything from free e-books, magazines, book recommendations and more!