As school bells rang out across the area this week, our thoughts turned to school days and naturally, as book lovers, to favorite books read by and to us in our youth. Books have an obvious and subtle lasting influence. This column is coming to you from Maine this week. In addition to fresh lobster, the first thing I thought about in Maine was “blueberries” – subtly inspired by Blueberries for Sal, the classic by Robert McCloskey. Reading and a love of books is the most enduring gift a parent, grandparent, or teacher can give. Raising a reader assures good, solid skills and language development that last a lifetime. Think about how often reading is part of your day…street signs, grocery labels, emails, sports reports, and newspapers. Reading is a fundamental part of everyday life. Children who are read to on a regular basis learn to read independently more easily. They develop language more rapidly, improve their listening skills, and have an extensive vocabulary and a longer attention span. Additionally readers develop other skills and habits of successful people. Reading promotes imagination and develops the ability to think independently. Top ranked high school and college students report that they were read to as youngsters and became readers themselves forging a path to success.
And believe it or not, it is not just preschool or very young children who benefit from being read to. Good literature can be shared throughout childhood and into young adulthood. Reading to your middle schooler helps maintain those bonds formed in their early years. Sharing a chapter book over the course of days can provide that special time for parent and child that is often lacking in today’s hectic world.
Reading aloud isn’t limited to parents reading to children. As parents age, it is the children’s turn to read aloud to their parents. Aging parents may no longer be able to read as they once enjoyed. So return the favor to those who read to you. Take the time to read a newspaper, an interesting magazine article, or a best seller to your mom and dad. If your parents aren’t available, visit an older neighbor or an assisted living facility and pass on the gift of reading aloud. Stop by the library for a great selection of reading material for all ages.
Two announcements from the Tyrone-Snyder Public Library:
• The Tailgate event scheduled for Friday, August 29 has been postponed. Those who purchased tickets may return them for a refund. Information about the future of this event will be available in the newspaper and on the library website.
• A Basket Bingo will be held on Sunday, September 7, at 2 p.m., at the Bald Eagle Fire Hall. Tickets are $25 for 20 games and include all specials; they are available at the library and at the door. Come out for an afternoon of entertainment, win beautiful themed baskets, and support your local library.
As school begins and autumn is just around the corner, make time to read – not only to yourself, but to your children and others. We look forward to seeing you at the Library soon!
