Author: Creative Arcade

Storytime is a beloved offering for the youngest library users, from infants to preschoolers, and for their families and caregivers. Librarians open the world of books to children, reading to them in a warm, engaging way. They introduce new vocabulary words and add finger play, singing, music, and sometimes dance. Parents and caregivers are invited to join in. For some children, it is a first introduction to reading and books.

After Storytime, many families head to the children’s book section to select books to check out and take home. It is magical when children use their own library cards to check out the books that they have chosen.

Thanks to donors, the branch libraries have their own “essentials kit”—puppets, musical instruments, art supplies, and books—needed to create weekly Storytime programs, and the West Duluth branch library has a colorful new Storytime rug. All of these elements help children feel welcome at the library and cultivate a love of learning.

One of the favorite memories of so many of Duluth’s residents is of Kaleidoscope: the magical summer children’s programs offered for free on the outdoor stage at the library.

Magicians, singers, acrobats, and other talented performers dazzle children sitting on chairs and blankets and feeling the warmth of a summer day. In the course of beguiling the kids with astonishing acts, performers remind children that they can learn to do these things, too, and more, by checking out books. And for a little while, the impossible becomes a little more possible, and new, creative ideas are sparked in a child’s mind. It all happens at the library.

Part of Kaleidoscope is the joy of watching the performance. The other, equally important part, it going into the library to check out books before or after the performance!

Every Tuesday morning and afternoon, for several weeks in the summer, Kaleidoscope brings the magic of learning to children. Foundation donors help make it happen.