Editorials
Library’s reading club promotes much-needed community literacy
MILLEDGEVILLE —
The Twin Lakes Library System recently wrapped up another successful Summer Reading Club with strong participation at all program levels.
Throughout the summer, children, teens and adults have taken part in the library’s programs and activities built around the annual Summer Reading Club theme. Each year the local libraries provide these types of programs and activities that encompass something for the entire family unit, promoting the benefits of literacy at all levels.
Of particular noteworthiness this year was the increase in participation in the adult reading club participants, setting a sound example for younger generations to follow on the importance of reading as a life-long activity and interest.
The Twin Lakes libraries not only provide these sorts of activities during the summer, however. Throughout the year, the library promotes learning and reading activities through weekly story hours, movie showings and, of course, through the annual fall library book fair.
In challenging financial times such as the one our state and many families are facing, it’s reassuring to know that the local libraries are still able to provide quality services and resources for the community to engage the entire family. No doubt, the economy cut into a number of local families’ summer vacation plans this year, but it’s good to know that they were exposed to fun and engaging learning opportunities during their downtime.
National data indicates that encouraging family literacy works to combat key issues related to poverty and improving life skills.
According to data provided by the National Center for Family Literacy, the estimated cost of illiteracy to taxpayers and businesses is $20 billion per year. Thirty-four million adults function at below basic literacy levels, meaning they are unable to complete simple literacy tasks such as filling out a job application, a deposit slip or reading a prescription label. Literacy directly impacts job skills and employability, increasing the importance of establishing the right foundation for young people and instilling in them the importance of developing strong literacy skills — valuable skills that can carry them further in life and in their careers.
As Baldwin County continues to strive toward the goal of becoming a Certified Literate Community, engaging the family unit in the reading activities is a vital component. It’s reassuring to know that the local libraries are helping to promote literacy at all levels in this regard.
- Editorials
-
-
Work together to end childhood obesity
A grant awarded a little more than a year ago is helping to address the root causes of childhood obesity in the Baldwin County community and promote healthy eating as a family-oriented, family-focused way of life.
-
Minton served the community well through her career
The community issued its well-wishes and goodbyes Thursday afternoon to outgoing county administrator Joan Minton, who announced her retirement earlier this year after a longstanding career working in county government.
-
Junior Board an opportunity for historic preservation
The Milledgeville Chapter of the Watson-Brown Foundation Junior Board of Trustees is accepting applications for area students to join in its efforts of promoting historic interests and preservation in the area community.
-
Programs enhance opportunity for student success
Earlier this week, a handful of area teens embarked on a journey with lasting implications as they settled in for the beginnings of their college experience.
-
Responsible ownership highlighted by dog attacks
A dog attack on a local pedestrian involving three pit bulls along Meriweather Road earlier this month, which was fortunately staved off by passersby, brings to light the importance of pet owners taking responsibility of their animals and perhaps a need for stiffer penalties for owners whose dogs can be traced back to these types of attacks.
-
Be diligent to stop burglaries
This weekend, more than 6,000 students will make their way to Milledgeville, on the eve of the start of classes at Georgia College & State University.
-
GMC’s new building marks a historic day in school’s history
With the ceremonial cut of the ribbon, Georgia Military College opened the doors to its new, self-contained preparatory school facility last week, marking a historic day in the college’s history.
-
Let Victory Baptist congregation move into its church
After reading your article on Victory Baptist Church, it makes one wonder why government seems to always find a way to get in the way of progress.
-
Organizers of Work Ready drive set sound example
Several weeks ago, Baldwin County was still inching slowly toward the goal of attaining Certified Work Ready Community status.
-
Digital medical files will increase patient safety
New technological capabilities at Oconee Regional Medical Center are creating greater accessibility and monitoring of patient care.
- More Editorials Headlines
-
Work together to end childhood obesity
