Family Study Space Open House Set for Sept. 8

Kelsey Lovewell

In celebration of International Literacy Day, the University Libraries invite campus community caregivers to a drop-in open house in the new family study space on Level 4 of Mullins Library from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 8. Refreshments and child-friendly activities will be provided, and attendees will get a sneak peek at the Children's Literacy and Learning Bags that will soon be available for checkout.   

International Literacy Day, first declared by UNESCO in 1966, highlights the importance of literacy on a worldwide scale. This year's theme is Transforming Literacy Learning Space, and UNESCO is asking the global community to consider ways to build equitable and inclusive literacy learning spaces.  

"I would like to invite all members of the campus community who care for young children to bring them to Mullins Library to explore our family study space and the new Children's Literacy and Learning Bags," said Laura Cameron, education librarian. "Caregivers and their children are an important part of our vibrant and diverse campus community, and I hope this will be the first of many opportunities for caregivers and children to explore, play and learn in our spaces! Our new Children's Literacy and Learning Bags are designed to give young children an opportunity to explore high-quality children's books and learning activities during a visit to the libraries or at home." 

The family study space, located in MULN 464, includes tables, chairs and a large monitor separated by a small partition from toys and books for children so that caregivers can keep an eye on little ones while doing their own reading, research or work. The Children's Literacy and Learning Bags each contain books and toys, games or crafts related to an education theme or topic. For example, bags will be available on topics such as community helpers, reptiles and foods around the world. Bags are available in three levels, meant for toddlers, early elementary students and upper elementary students.   

Funding for outfitting the family study space and the Children's Literacy and Learning Bags was provided by the Women's Giving Circle.   

"Laura and I cannot thank the Women's Giving Circle enough for funding our grant proposal," said Stephanie Pierce, director of user services. "Their belief in our project has helped University Libraries create a space in Mullins that provides our campus community caregivers a feeling of belonging and support. Both the campus and local community's enthusiastic response to the family study space's prior announcement seems to show these types of support are highly valued by those who need them."