Computers Teaching Early Literacy at Kirkwood Library

Why we have libraries: Early Literacy Station Computers. There are lots of reasons why a community wants a library.  Public libraries provide a gathering space, programs and activities that create community, resources to educate and entertain and specialized services and internet access to the public.

Recently, I was in our library’s children’s section and had the opportunity to spend a few minutes watching a group of 3 years olds using our Early Literacy Station computers.  It became instantly clear to me: THIS is one of the best reasons why a community wants a library.

The Early Literacy Station computers are touch screen that come loaded with games, stories, animations and art programs for children ages 2-8.  They help children develop reading, writing, problem solving and computer literacy skills through fun, colorful and engaging activities.  You can use your finger to create a digital painting, help Elmo figure out shapes, or move Dora on one of her explorations.  The library previously owned a version of these computers and thanks to a gift from the Friends of the Kirkwood Public Library and a grant through the Missouri State Library, we were able to upgrade to a more powerful version.  The result is a site to be seen.

These moments are the heart of the and its mission.  We seek to educate, entertain and enlighten.  It takes very little observation to see that all three of these things are going on for the youth who use these machines.  What we offer the citizens of Kirkwood by having these computers is simple – technological literacy from the youngest of ages.  Children are learning how to interact with technology on their own every day at the library. 

So if you have a young one in your life – a child or grandchild, a niece or nephew – I encourage you to come to the library and try out the Early Literacy Computers.  Let them explore this technology and grow at the library.