rachelh@myweeklysentinel.com
CANTON — As of last week, local libraries were allowed to reopen, but still follow CDC guidelines with social distancing.
Because of this, The Green Free Library in Canton decided to continue its traditional “Preschool Learning Time,” but instead, with a Facebook Live online called “Virtual Preschool Learning Time.”
“Our whole summer learning for preschoolers and school age up to grade 5/6 will be online. We won’t have any children’s programming in the Library until school returns,” said the library’s director, Cathy Golder, who is also hosting the free program every Thursday.
Preschool Learning Time lasts about 10-15 minutes every Thursday at 10 a.m. Golder says she usually does it on Facebook Live, but is working on getting a YouTube channel account going so those who do not have Facebook can still enjoy the program as well.
“Last week we celebrated mommies and grammies by reading three books about Moms. I also sang two songs they know, called Five Little Ducks and Skinamarink,” said Golder. “I then asked them to draw a picture of their mom, grandmom, etc.”
“Another week I read stories about spring and sang a few songs, then I gave them ideas to make a flower with items from home such as a cupcake liner,” said Golder.
Beginning in June, the library will have the summer program going. For preschoolers, there will be a grab bag of crafts that parents can pick up at the beginning of the month to go with the stories.
For school age beginning on the week of June 17, a performance will be posted.
“Details are still being worked out as most of the performers are shared with the whole Bradford County Library System,” said Golder. “We will also be implementing ReadSquared, an online reading log with prizes. More Information will be given in the next few weeks.”
Currently, the library is waiting to hear from the Office of Commonwealth Libraries for the OK to move forward from curbside pickup, which started last Tuesday.
For more information on The Green Free Library, located in Canton, check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Green-Free-Library-Canton-364308713704110, or call 570-673-5744. In person visits require a mask and the use of their hand sanitizing station at the door.
“Some parents have asked and we have listened! We now have 1,000 books before kindergarten available through the library! Here is the link: http://greenfreecanton.readsquared.com. This link will also take you to our summer reading log. Children can create an avatar, record their books or minutes and win prizes,” reads a Facebook post for the library.