Early literacy is key to school success, reading books and becoming a lifelong learner. 

In 2006, the Texas State Library and Archives Commission sponsored a series of workshops on how public libraries can incorporate early literacy techniques in their preschool storytimes.  These techniques are based entirely on the Public Library Association's Every Child Ready to Read @ your library project. Many public library staff in central Texas libraries attended a May 2006 workshop at the Round Rock Public Library.  Some of the libraries began using the techniques but usage was scattered.

In 2007, the Central Texas Library System, Inc. saw the need for an organized way to involve public libraries in teaching the importance of early literacy skills.  We applied three times for grants to support library staff training and reaching parents/caregivers through community partnerships.  While we did not receive grant funding, several funders were interested in the project.  

We tried a fourth time.  In February 2008 we asked all the public libraries and Head Start agencies in four central Texas counties if they would like to participate in a Texas State Library grant.  Fourteen of the public libraries and all three Head Start agencies said yes!  See the Contact Info page for a full list of libraries and Head Start agencies. 

Success!  In August 2008 we received word that our efforts to fund Ready to Read were successful.  Our year-long grant runs from September 2008 to August 2009.  Our hope is to reach 2000 parents, caregivers and teachers in Central Texas through early literacy classes offered by public library staff and their partnerships with local Head Start agencies and other groups interested in the well-being of young children and families.