Washoe County Library System: Virtual Literacy Plus

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2021

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, state-mandated restrictions and shutdowns led the Washoe County Library System to develop innovative solutions to the lack of in-person library programming. In an effort to foster an optimal learning environment, we expanded our regular interactive events, launching a virtual component with the goal of connecting online with pre-K and K-12 age groups. Our Virtual Story Time program was developed by Washoe County Library’s Youth Services and Virtual Services teams. Remote, video-based story times combine print motivation and pre-literacy skills with the Library’s targeted vision to connect people with information, ideas and experiences. Additionally, Break with Baby and Early Reader Feature serve children ages 0-7 and their caregivers. The interactive activities and early literacy tips offered via these programs have given families an opportunity to focus on learning and literacy in the absence of in-person story time experiences.Reaching our community virtually has had a lasting impact on our vision of library programming. Hundreds of Story Time videos have been viewed over 40,000 times, offering broad exposure to families who have not had the opportunity to visit a library in person.