Dr. Nersi Niami of King of Prussia Pediatrics to provide a welcoming packet to each family of a newborn baby in their practice.  Approximately 200 educational packets have already been given out to many appreciative families.  Each packet includes a classic board book, bookmark providing information about the library's free resources/services and tips for promoting early literacy with young children. 

Studies show that a child's brain develops rapidly during the first few years of life, and young children learn best by interacting with people, not screens (televisions, computers or video games).  Experts believe that having access to a variety of books at home strengthens a child's vocabulary and interest in reading, even as infants.  The library's literacy outreach effort was initially sponsored through a grant from Target.  Thanks to the generosity of the local business and community leaders involved in the King of Prussia Rotary Club, the library has been able to continue their efforts to educate families on the importance of reading with children at an early age.

The Upper Merion Township Library offers free story times for children from birth to six years old, 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Program to encourage reading at home and informative parent child workshops for parents and caregivers in the community.  For more information on all the wonderful services and programs being offered at the library for children and adults, please go to www.umtownship.org/library.