Last year, the Independence Public Library was awarded a GO Kids Grant from the Jerome S. and Barbara Bischoff Library sub-fund of the Oregon Community Foundation to create and expand an Early Learning Hub in the children’s section of the library.
In 2022, funding was used to purchase two All-in-One stations and two AWE Learning tablets that feature bilingual programs and games in the areas of science, technology, reading, engineering, art and music, and math. The library also purchased new kid-friendly tables and chairs and was able to expand its collection of Backpack Kits full of movies, games, and books for kids. This fiscal year, the funds were used to replenish the Early Childhood Backpack Kits and build the space for the early learning hub now known as the “Early Learning Cottage.”
“This space, and the materials that are a part of it, have been a huge draw to parents and children in our community,” said Library Director Patrick Bodily. “Over the past year, we’ve seen an increase in the circulation of our newly revamped Backpack Kits and the use of our Early Learning Computers continues to increase, showing people are taking advantage of these available resources.”
Bring your kids to the library and enjoy the new space!
