Idaho Commission for Libraries

Read to Me, a program of the Idaho Commission for Libraries, sponsors this outreach component to make a stronger connection to the role libraries play in educational achievement for Idaho students.

Click here for the online application. 

Participating libraries will host a library table at kindergarten registration and partner with the school librarian when possible. Librarians will hand out prepared packets of early literacy and library information to families and a free book for each child who stops by the table.

Funding is available to provide free books, informational materials for parents, and display components for library tables. Participating libraries will receive enough paperback copies of Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come! by Nancy Carlson to give one to each child registering for Kindergarten. Multiple copies of Jump Start folders with information for parents on libraries and reading will also be available for libraries as part of the program. A limited number of display components are also available on loan. Libraries are encouraged to customize the folders and displays with local library and summer reading program information. Public libraries are encouraged to partner with the local school and, in particular, school library personnel to promote summer reading and library services.

Idaho Reading Indicator scores and other research clearly shows that many children entering school lack literacy experiences and reading role models. Public libraries have the tools parents need to give their child a jumpstart on reading – books and materials, librarians with early literacy expertise, and early literacy programs and services.

Jump Start objectives:

1. Educate and excite parents about how their library and librarian can help give their child a jump start on reading.
2. Increase the number of children entering school who have library cards.
3. Increase the number of visits these children make to the library (as measured in participation in Summer Reading or other programs aimed at this age group).
4. Build the capacity of local libraries to strengthen their role in the education community, raise their visibility, and reach out to non-users.
5. Increase the visibility of the Read to Me program.

The Jump Start Project is funded with Library Services and Technology Act funds as part of the Read to Me Program.

Additional Resources:

Librarians participating in the program can complete the brief evaluation form online or in Word . Evaluations and extra books need to be returned to the State Commission ten days after your Jump Start event.

A tip sheet on setting up your Jump Start display is available in Word.

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