AETN’s Read to Succeed program to make FC stop

The Forrest City Public Library is offering a full slate of summer programs for children and families, with events scheduled throughout July. Among the highlights is a special event hosted by Arkansas PBS as part of their statewide Read to Succeed literacy initiative. Sheila Gracey, Director of Children and Youth Services at the local library, said they are excited about the return of PBS to this area. PBS Community Education Manager Karen Walker, the success of the program is rooted in community partnerships. “In the beginning, we were just looking for communities willing to host, and local libraries like Forrest City’s have become gracious hosts,” said Walker. “Because libraries offer their space, we are able to dedicate more funding directly to programming for families.” Walker explained that the program is possible through Joan R. and Charles M. Taylor II Memorial Endowment Fund. “We usually have a great turnout, and we’re always thrilled to welcome PBS,” said Gracey. “Programs like these bring families together and help kids stay connected with reading.” What began as Reading in the Delta has quickly grown into a statewide program. Starting just five years ago with four events, the program is now in 10 different cities across the state with 14 events. According to the Arkansas “Due to the impact of the program and the Taylor Foundation increasing funds each year, we’ve been able to expand it beyond where we started,” said Walker. “Those funds were earmarked for education and it’s helped engage families around reading and provided literacy resources for families.” The Read to Succeed event includes a free meal, story time and hands-on engagement with parents and children. Families also receive take-home resources including a literacy resource bag for parents and a goodie bag for children complete with a journal and snack. According to Walker, each year’s book is carefully chosen not only to engage young readers but to teach life lessons. This summer's story time will feature the book “Potato Pants” and help children with regulating emotions and learning executive functions. This year's program also includes stops in Jonesboro, Russellville, Morrilton, Pine Bluff and Siloam Springs. The Forrest City Event will take place on Monday, July 14, at 4:30 p.m., at the library and is free and open to all families in the community. “We want families to read together,” said Walker. “When children fall in love with reading and can read well, they gain strength in all other subjects and areas.” This event is one of many being hosted by the library. Gracey said the library is experimenting with new times slots for programs to accommodate more families. “Last summer we offered sessions at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.,” said Gracey. The morning program had better attendance, but we had some requests for a later time, so this year we are shifting to later afternoon at 4 p.m., for some programs to see what works better for our community.” In addition to children’s activities, the library also offers adult programming such as a crocheting class. However, Gracey noted the library's hours limit how late these can be scheduled.” “We’d love to offer more adult programs, but the latest we can start a class would be 4 p.m. Still we welcome ideas from the community,” added Gracey. The library's summer reading program kick off begins Tuesday, July 2, with a cookie painting activating at 10 a.m. Regular programs throughout June are on Mondays at 4:15 p.m. and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Events will include story and craft times and educational activities. A foam party is planned for July 28.

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