Reaching Families During the Pandemic: Virtual Storytimes and Story Strolls
2021 NACo Achievement Award Winner
Washington County, Minn., MN
Best In Category
About the Program
Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)
Year: 2021
In March 2020, Washington County Library locations closed to the public in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and in-person programming was cancelled. During this challenging time, library leadership and staff were committed to continue serving communities and fulfilling the libraryâs mission. One goal was to create early literacy experiences for Washington County families that were safe, educational, and engaging. The library found ways to reach families, make connections, and build relationships through virtual storytimes and story strolls. These programs had high levels of participation, and many families shared personal stories about the joy they provided during the challenging pandemic.