In this episode, we will talk about a long-standing, but often overlooked, resource for young children and families: public libraries. Libraries not only provide free books to borrow, they also offer resources, tools, and opportunities to help their communities thrive.

We will explore how regular trips to your local library can help both promote early learning and build community and cultural connections, enhancing a young child’s overall well-being. We will also explore funding and resource disparities and how this impacts libraries’ ability to serve their communities.

To help us navigate this journey we will hear from Anthony, Community Engagement Coordinator for the Oakland Public Library and co-founder of the Father Circle.

We will also hear from Marie, a mom to a one-year-old child and Development Manager for the National Center for Youth Law.

Highlights:

1:17- What is a third place?

9:00- Libraries are not funded equally

24:00- Tips for parents of young children going to the Oakland Public Library

26:50- Multilingual resources at the Oakland Public Library

30:50- Finding a sense of belonging for mixed race families at the library

33:38- Marie’s favorite book recommendations

Resources:

• Find your local library: https://www.library.ca.gov/branches/

• Why Is It Important to Read to Your Child (Child Mind Institute)

• EdSource article

• All public libraries aren’t created equal; it depends on who they serve

• A guide to early learning: What to know for reading readiness

Also check out this related episode: For a discussion about how reading with infants and toddlers fosters early brain development and strengthens emotional bonds with parents and caregivers, be sure to check out Episode #1 from our second season. For a discussion about how play with infants and toddlers fosters healthy emotional and social connections, check out our Episode #3 from our second season.

Interested in sharing your motherhood story or suggesting a topic? Reach out to us at health@youthlaw.org. We'd love to hear from you.

This episode is brought to you by the National Center for Youth Law, with support from the Resilience Effect initiative by Genentech, a Roche Group member.