We are expanding out popular Wonderbook collection for patrons at all 3 library locations – Bowman Library, Clarke County Library, and Handley Library. A Wonderbook is a print book with a built-in audiobook player where kids can listen to the story as they read along. The additional books are made possible through a grant from the American Woodmark Foundation to the Friends of the Handley Regional Library System, the official non-profit 501c3 for the library system that helps support programs, services, and specific funding initiatives. 39 more books will be added with popular titles and series from National Geographic, Anna Dewdney’s Llama Llama, Lincoln Pierce’s Big Nate, and more. The collection also includes Spanish selections.
Learn more about Wonderbooks here.
“We would like to thank the generosity of the American Woodmark Foundation and their focus of expanding literacy materials for children in our community,” says John Huddy, Director of Handley Regional Library System. “We originally launched Wonderbooks in 2019, however the demand for these books is so great they are often checked out. We are excited to offer more options to our patrons with this growing collection.”
“We are grateful to the American Woodmark Foundation and their help with this initiative,” adds Barbara Dickinson, Executive Director for the Friends of the Handley Regional Library System. “Being able to bring additional literacy materials to the community can be a challenge, especially during a pandemic. Their support will make an impact on the children and students in our area.”
Wonderbooks are designed to introduce and build on literacy skills through a variety of applications.
“Wonderbooks help aid in better kindergarten preparedness and build on an existing foundation for positive academic behaviors,” adds Huddy. “With the out loud reading feature, children can experience an improvement in language skills, concentration, confidence, and other core skills. The books also come with a comprehension feature where the audio player can ask questions about the story.”
Wonderbooks are available at all 3 library locations and patrons can browse what’s available or place a hold online with their library card at www.handleyregional.org.