Forever Books is a new initiative at IRW designed especially for children ages 3–5 and their families. Made possible through the generosity of Nancy B. Putnam and the Nancy Fund, this program marks an exciting expansion of IRW’s work. While our school programs have traditionally served children in Pre-K through 8th grade, Forever Books focuses on an even earlier—and critically important—stage of learning.

The goal of Forever Books is simple but powerful: to strengthen early literacy skills by recognizing parents and caregivers as a child’s first and most important teacher. “We want to get children excited about books in a playful way—with movement—and to engage parents as well. It’s a critical time for literacy development that lays the foundation for later reading. Picture books develop vocabulary and phonological awareness, important skills necessary for learning to read.”

Meeting Families Where They Are

Last fall, IRW staff began reaching out to organizations across Hancock County to better understand the challenges families face around early literacy. Through these conversations, a common theme emerged: many families were unable to attend traditional library storytimes due to work schedules and other barriers. That led us to an essential question: How do we find where families already are?

Storytime Collaborations Across the Community

The answer came through partnerships. Forever Books storytimes are now happening at:

• Head Start Downeast
• Families First
• The Early Learning Center at the Moore Center in Ellsworth
• Blue Hill Public Library
• H.O.M.E. in Orland

During each visit, IRW staff read one or two carefully chosen picture books, lead fun fingerplays and movement activities, and encourage families to participate together. Each family also receives a featured book to take home—complete with a Forever Books nameplate designed by acclaimed Maine author and illustratorChris Van Dusen. The nameplate features an adorable frog, a nod to Nancy Putnam and her love of frogs. To extend the experience even further, families receive a Storytime Book Guide filled with ideas for revisiting the book at home through playful activities and conversation starters. Every storytime emphasizes parent involvement and highlights specific early literacy skills through themed book selections.

“Literacy begins at home and must be supported in school and communities. Families and caregivers are critical partners in fostering literacy development.”

Looking Ahead

Forever Books continues to grow, with several exciting initiatives on the horizon:

• A Storytime Finder on the IRW website to help families locate nearby programs
• Collaboration with the Downeast YMCA’s Healthy Kids event—possibly featuring a visit from a life-size Hungry Caterpillar
• Book Bites, a new summer storytime program bringing early literacy experiences to families at Mount Desert Island food pantries and farmers markets