Note: This webinar occurred on July 9.

The importance of early childhood education was underscored by President Obama in his most recent State of the Union address: “Study after study shows that the sooner a child begins learning, the better he or she does down the road.”

Join us to hear Susan Hildreth, director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, present on a recent policy report, developed with the Campaign for Grade-level Reading, that highlights the role of libraries in early learning. The report also offers a plan of action for policy makers to build on current research and include libraries in early learning strategies. Attendees will learn about best practices for enhancing reading programs and how to participate in your community’s efforts to address literacy concerns. In addition, Lee Rainie, director of the Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project, will describe the Project’s newly released report about the special role that libraries play in the life of families with children. Attendees will learn what matters to parents about their library experiences with their children, and how library programs and outreach can address those needs.