Glades Family Literacy Fun Night

On September 29, 2005, the library opened for a special program which targeted families who wish to improve their literacy skills. The program was designed to model emergent literacy activities that parents could do with their children while learning that the library is a place where families can feel welcome to explore together.

Approximately 140 people attended the event with several area agencies participating. The staff, students and families from the Glades Tri-City Family Education Program, a program that is funded through the Palm Beach County Literacy Coalition, attended. Catholic Charities brought families from the Haitian Community. Other agencies which promoted the event were: Glades Community Development Corporation, Glades Central Community High School, and Family First, a title 1 migrant program. Some of the activities included in the program were: Take a tour of the library (offered in English and Creole), Family database instruction (offered in English, Spanish and Creole), free books for both the children and their parents, and 9 different learning stations for families to explore. The evening culminated with a vibrant storyteller, Thomas Flewellyn, who brought the tales of Anansi alive.

The program was a success thanks to the help of additional staff volunteers from South Bay, Pahokee and the Library Annex Literacy Project. Additional help was also provided by Library Literacy Board Members and literacy students. This program was funded with a grant from the Almeda Toomey Literary Foundation. Star Group International, located in West Palm Beach, donated 50 books titled “101 Reasons to Read with Your Child” by Brenda Star, and further assistance was provided by Payless Shoe Source and the Royal Discount Store of Belle Glade.