Storytime Salons

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2018

San Diego County Library (SDCL) introduced a new program to support literacy and family engagement. Inspired by cultural salons that flourished during the European Enlightenment, salons served as gathering places for the exchange of ideas, increasing knowledge and encouraging conversation. The Storytime Salon was developed to expose families to performing arts when many schools have been forced to reduce arts programming. Storytime Salon provided a four-part series where families enjoyed performances by local musicians accompanying storybook readings by area authors. Dr. Virginia Loh-Hagan emceed ceremonies sharing fun facts about each musical piece, author and book, providing background knowledge as a springboard for future discussions. The result was a multi-sensory experience where stories were brought to life by music to promote understanding, enrichment, and literacy development. The salons featured vibrant themes such as “Celebrate Diversity,” and “Imagination and Dreams.” Additional summer salons provided opportunities for piano enthusiasts of all ages to perform for a live audience, connecting music enthusiasts all over San Diego County. The series, developed in partnership with Dr. Virginia Loh-Hagan, a San Diego State University professor, literacy specialist, and children’s book author, complements traditional literacy efforts of public libraries providing free access to high quality cultural arts experiences.