The Idaho Commission for Libraries is conducting an evaluation of the use of Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds, as specified in the Commission’s LSTA Long-Range Plan, 2008 -2012. 

A comprehensive program evaluation of Idaho Commission for Libraries' (ICFL) Read to Me First Book program was conducted by Boise State University Literacy Professor Dr. Roger Stewart. Dr. Stewart has been collecting data regarding the First Book program and other Read to Me early literacy programs for three years; he has compiled his findings in annual reports for 2008, 2009, and 2010.

A record number of Idaho children from birth to kindergarten will be
participating in the 2011-2012 Read to Me First Book program. Approximately 3,100
children will receive a book each month during the upcoming school year,
provided by Read to Me and distributed by 32 Idaho libraries. This is an
increase of over 500 children from the previous year.

For the past 13 years, the Read to Me program has sponsored an annual training meeting. This year the meeting is designed to build the capacity of libraries to provide information on the six early literacy skills to Idaho families through outreach and at the library.  Here’s an overview of the meeting content:

National advice columnist Amy Dickinson’s “Ask Amy” column promoted a great idea -- "A Book on Every Bed." Here’s how it works:

Literacy Stations are a great tool for librarians to use during parent workshops, family events, or storytimes. They can include books and activities for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and early school-age children and are based on the Six Early Literacy Skills. There are many reasons to create Literacy Stations for your library. Here are just a few!

Easy To Use

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The Bookworm is a monthly publication of the Read to Me First Book program. This early literacy newsletter is sent home to the parents of children receiving First Books each month, and contains age-appropriate literacy information and activities. It can also be distributed by school and public librarians to parents at storytimes and library events.