The Help of Libraries for Expectant Parents

Often times, early childhood programs are offered at different libraries. Now, libraries are starting to offer services to expectant parents by partnering up with local hospitals. Take a look at the libraries below that are offering these programs. 

Iowa City Public Library-

• Began a new "prebirth" program called Belly Babies.
• Goal- invite expecting parents to come into the library before their baby is born to learn about starting a reading ritual.
• 6-week program that focuses on the importance of early literacy.
• Presentations from community specialists
• family counselors
• lactation specialists
• doulas
• early childhood educators

Oregon’s Deschutes Public Library 

• Launched "Welcome Baby Packets" in 2017.
• Avaliable in both English and Spanish
• Include a bilingual book of poems
• Encourages reading at a young age

St. Louis County Library

• Launched Born To Read Packets
• In the packet, includes a baby's first library card
• This encourages parents to bring their babies to the library to celebrate their first birthday.
• Also can receive free books. 

All of these library programs promote early reading and encourages the expectant parents to start reading to their child at a young age. 

Reference: Witteveen, A. (2017). Nurturing New Parents, Reaching out to New and Expectant Parents Can Forge Connections to Last a Lifetime. Library Journal.