When Skeeter was just 5 or 6 months old, I loaded up my stroller and drove to my local library. I met the children's librarian, Miss Nancy, on my first trip to the library in our area. I said, "I don't know if I'm here too early. She's so young, but I couldn't stay away any longer!" I didn't even know what kind of books you read to a nice, little round Blossom like mine, but I was determined to read to her. Miss Nancy immediately pointed me in the direction of books written by Nancy Tafuri, an author who has come to be a favorite here, and a tradition for our babies. "Oh Skeeter, we won't just read you board books any more!" Miss Nancy taught me that it's ok for babies to put books in their mouths. It's their first "impression" of literacy... and it's tasty, as even Sweet Pea knows. (just kidding) Through the years, Miss Nancy has taught me in many ways. I once attended her (free!) seminar on Early Childhood Education and Literacy. It still affects how I think about reading to and interacting with my children in their early years. Once, we were headed out the door on a family camping trip. I didn't have the time or the resources to order a reference book on Butterflies in our area. I called in, reserved a book and asked my husband to pick it up. He came home with a stack of 4 books! They wanted to make sure I had everything I needed! Miss Nancy graciously helped me teach Skeeter how to use the library. She is a fountain of information and inspiration. Who wrote Billy & Blaze? "C.W. Anderson." Where can I find some good animal books for Scooter? "Just over here..." I need some ideas for read-aloud time. "How about Stuart Little?" I can tell Miss Nancy cares about the selection on her shelves. She's constantly updating things. We just enjoyed a new audio version of Mr. Popper's Penguins, a title that wasn't always available on cd. I'm sure this was brought about by her tireless work. Yes, your local librarian is your best friend. There are countless versions of Miss Nancy all over the United States, waiting to meet you and your children, thrilled to answer your questions, share their love of reading.
Go!
Ask!
May your love of reading grow!
