Little Free Libraries Unveiled in City Council District III
Wichita Public Library, Wichita Literacy Coalition and community partners have created and installed 26 Little Free Libraries throughout the southeast quadrant of the City in City Council District III – each one decorated after a letter of the alphabet.
The Little Free Libraries are part of a project to help kids in areas at risk of having lower literacy rates have better access to books, tools and resources to explore reading at home. Developing reading skills is important for long-term success of residents, both in school and beyond.
“All children aged five and under deserve access to library materials that ignite joy for learning and early learning skills,” said Jaime Nix, Director of Libraries.
The 26 Little Free Libraries are decorated for each letter of the alphabet, creating a space where residents can easily access free books and information. An audio component created by Wichita State University’s Engineering students pronounce letters when the door opens. The Library and community partners will provide books for early learners and parents; everyone is welcome to use the Little Free Libraries and to share the books forward.
“Strategic investments in family engagement and early literacy efforts are critical as new parents learn about the library and the multitude of ways the library and community partners collaborate to help them raise a reader,” Nix said. “We want to make sure Wichita’s parents and caregivers are aware of how Wichita Public Library can help.”
More information about the Little Free Libraries, including a printable and interactive map of locations, can be found at www.wichitalibrary.org. Thanks to the following partners for their investment in the project: Hutton Construction, Evergy, Wichita Public Library Foundation, Wichita State University Engineering, and CityArts.
#
