You can still take advantage of the wonderful classes and events offered by the Suffolk Public Library as we all work together to help slow the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by self-isolating and practicing social distancing as recommended by the CDC.
Especially with schools closed and many wondering how to keep children engaged and entertained for an extended period while at home, the Library is here to help and has kicked off their first round of virtual classes and events this morning at 10:00 a.m. with Storytime Rhymes & More with Mrs. April. Additional events are scheduled throughout the day, and this information is also posted to both their Facebook page and their YouTube channel. (YouTube playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpkh_vhPHfCzYyztYx0psTJ8j0UD8bS-8).
April Watkins, Early Childhood Services Senior Librarian, notes, “Offering Storytime online is fantastic. A lot of what we do in Storytime is not only to entertain and engage the kids, we’re really modeling ways for parents to engage in early literacy strategies at home. That is always my goal for Storytime. My hope is that all kids will have participated in early literacy activities before entering kindergarten, because that will make them much better readers in the long run.”
With these virtual opportunities in which to learn, the Suffolk Public Library can cast a wider net for sharing early literacy with the children and families of our community, especially while facilities are closed to the public.
Schedules are currently being finalized, but every weekday will include the posting of virtual classes on topics ranging from virtual Storytimes to DIY classes. Additional content already filmed includes DIY Slime, How to Make Your Own Sensory Bottles, and Fandom Crafts using everyday objects at home. Additional services and announcements will be made moving forward.
The Library is also offering assistance to citizens by phone at 757-514-7323, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and online through an Ask Us form. Information is available at www.suffolkpubliclibrary.com/askus.