Back to school might look different in 2020, but one thing that hasn’t changed is the library’s unwavering commitment to helping children learn, explore and grow.
In addition to welcoming families into the library during our limited open hours, we are pleased to announce that you can now book special times out of open hours to bring your children to the library. Simply call your local branch and we will book a time for you.
We can also book a time for you to come for a “Bubble Storytime”. Bring your family bubble, and we’ll read a story or two. As long as weather permits this will be outside, and when it gets cool we’ll head inside.
If you have a young writer in your home, mark your calendar for Oct. 10. This is the deadline for a writer’s contest spearheaded by Cressy Lakeside Books. Writers 25 and under invited to submit a previously unpublished piece of writing (500 – 3000 words). The contest is open to Prince Edward County residents only and there is no limitation on style, format, or subject matter. Email submissions to [email protected] with the subject line “Writing contest”. Be sure to include your name, age, and contact information. Submissions can be PDF or Word document. If you need help formatting your document please contact [email protected]. Writers up to age 12 will be eligible for a prize awarded by Tammy Noyes, Realtor at Century 21 Lanthorn and 12-25 will be eligible for a $250 prize awarded by Cressy Lakeside Books. The winning pieces will be posted on the Cressy Lakeside Books website.
We will offer online “library visits” to classes across the County through prerecorded video or live video call. Teachers can contact us by email [email protected] to discuss possibilities which can include Makerspace and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) projects, literacy and more.
Children are also invited to join Joanna for Ready Readers, starting on Sept. 22 and happening every Tuesday at 11 a.m. until Oct. 27. It will be a weekly Zoom meet up for kids ages 5 – 7 that are working on early reading skills. Participants will read interactive books together and play games that foster early literacy skills.
On Thursdays, starting on Sept. 24 join us for “Learn to Doodle” at 3 p.m. which will be a Zoom call that will encourage children to get creative together. Find all the details and register at peclibrary.org/kids. We are also excited to roll out new “Discovery Kits”. These are technology and resources that families can borrow to learn at home. For example, there are several robots, gadgets that help demonstrate conductivity (have you ever made a banana piano?) and more.
For more information about the kits, and any of the library’s children’s programs, contact Joanna by email [email protected] or by phone (613) 476-5962.
-Liz Zylstra