New Research: Librarians promote school readiness through Every Child Ready to Read programs

CHICAGO — The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) and the Public Library Association (PLA) have published a report called Bringing Early Literacy Home: An Evaluation of the Every Child Ready to Read Program. The research was conducted from 2013-2016 by Drs. Susan Neuman and Donna Celano under a grant to ALSC and PLA from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to study the impact of the Every Child Ready to Read (ECRR) initiative on the early literacy practices of families whose libraries incorporate ECRR into their programming.

Among the findings, Neuman and Celano note, “Although the Five Practices might appear differently in different places, there is no mistaking that they are well known to many families.” Through various approaches during story time, “[i]nstead of only talking to children, the librarian often models behaviors to show parents how they can increase early literacy using the Five Practices.” 

“This report further validates the importance of the early literacy work librarians do every day,” says ALSC President, Nina Lindsay. “Our job now is to make sure communities are aware of the strong literacy development available in their neighborhood libraries.” 

ECRR has been the basis for much of ALSC’s work in early childhood development and literacy. This includes the development of Babies Need Words Every Day materials, which provide easy-to-follow tips for parents and caregivers to support their children’s preliteracy skills. ALSC and PLA will share the results of this report in upcoming newsletters and conferences. For updates on ECRR resources and to order materials, visit the Every Child Ready to Read website. 

About ALSC
The Association for Library Service to Children is the world's largest organization dedicated to the support and enhancement of library service to children. ALSC's network includes more than 4,000 children's and youth librarians, children's literature experts, publishers, education and library school faculty members, and other adults dedicated to creating a better future for children through libraries.

About PLA
The Public Library Association (PLA) is the largest association dedicated to supporting the unique and evolving needs of public library professionals. Founded in 1944, PLA serves nearly 9,000 members in public libraries large and small in communities across the United States and Canada, with a growing presence around the world. PLA strives to help its members shape the essential institution of public libraries by serving as an indispensable ally for public library leaders.