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Wilton Library Opens Its Doors To The Youngest Readers

WILTON, Conn. — Each September libraries across the land invite people to get new library cards – opening real and virtual doors to the world that awaits them. This year, Wilton Library is putting a twist on the practice by throwing open its jungle doors to the Children’s Library and embracing Wilton’s children of all ages. 

Lola is now eligible for her very own library card at Wilton Library during September’s Library Card Sign-up Month now that the age requirement has been eliminated. Lola’s mom Alexandra Norris is getting a good start at reading books to her.

Lola is now eligible for her very own library card at Wilton Library during September’s Library Card Sign-up Month now that the age requirement has been eliminated. Lola’s mom Alexandra Norris is getting a good start at reading books to her.

 Photo Credit: Contributed
Daily Voice

For the first time, parents will be able to sign up their infants, toddlers and pre-K children for new cards. 

“We are delighted to announce that we are eliminating the 5-year-old's age requirement," said Elaine Tai-Lauria, executive director. "We believe that wonderful ideas are generated well before a child is formally able to read, so we’re inviting parents to register their little ones and we’re encouraging our youngest patrons to explore our picture book bins and check out books on their very own library card.” 

Along with the elimination of the age requirement, Wilton Library also is introducing a new reading incentive program called “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten.” 

The national program is a fun way to engage parents and their children in reading aloud and developing a life-long love of reading. 

“This is a stress-free program that helps parents log the books that they are reading to their children," said Andrea Szabo, head of Children’s Library at Wilton Library. "For every 100 books read, children will receive a brand new book and stickers. A certificate will be given to the child when the goal of 1,000 books is reached.” 

This early reader initiative is made possible at the library by Cohen and Wolf and Tiger Tales Publishing. 

A pamphlet with more program details is available in the library and on the library’s website, or parents may call the Children’s Library at 203- 762-6336 for more information. 

For teens and adults, a Wilton Library card gains access to hours of entertainment, reading enjoyment, instructional information and even maker activities in the Thomas T. Adams Innovation Station. 

“From downloadable eBooks and audiobooks to streaming movies, TV shows and music; from statewide database access to Ancestry.com; from 3D printing to soldering, die cutting and embroidering, a Wilton Library card offers a world of discovery to everyone who walks through our doors,” said Karen Zeibak, circulation services manager.

The library recently introduced six new colorful library card designs from which children and adults can choose. People can fill out their applications at the Circulation Desk and receive the new cards on the spot. 

When children visit the Children’s Library they will be able to see the new addition to the jungle that took place over the summer. 

More of the jungle “grew” so that it now is visible from the inside of the children’s space as well, thanks to the artists Ed MacEwen and his daughter, Bonnie MacEwen Sailer. 

Wilton Library is located at 137 Old Ridgefield Road in the heart of Wilton Center. For information and directions, visit www.wiltonlibrary.org or call 203-762- 6334.

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