Overview
Literacy is a foundational skill for learners, leading to success in academics and an enriched quality of life. Libraries are hubs of activities that connect individuals to literacy resources.
At the New York State Library, our team is committed to ensuring every New Yorker has access to literacy services to become proficient readers, writers, and communicators. Libraries provide critical access to reading materials, inclusive learning environments, and accessible technology to develop individuals’ literacy skills and help New York’s communities thrive.
Connect with your local library to learn more about the resources available to you, your family, and your community.
Support for Libraries
Teach My Kid to Read
The NYS Library is proud to partner with Teach My Kid to Read (TMKTR), an organization that educates public librarians about the process of learning to read and how to support skilled reading. In particular, TMKTR provides training and resources regarding the importance of language skills and decoding skills, building literacy skills through library activities, and the importance of decodable (or sound-aloud) books.
To connect with Teach My Kid to Read resources and opportunities, please contact us.
Ready to Read
Ready to Read at New York Libraries is an initiative of the New York State Education Department designed to improve and expand the availability of high-quality public library early learning services in local communities across the State. This train-the-trainer program strengthens library staff skills to ensure that families and caregivers with young children receive the highest quality services at all of New York’s 1,000 public library outlets.
Additionally, the NYS Library partners with OCLC’s WebJunction to bring Supercharged Storytimes for All (SSA) to youth services public library staff across the state. This free program is aimed at those new to offering storytimes, as well as seasoned providers.
Summer Reading
Summer Reading programs advance literacy and academic performance by engaging children and teens in reading during summer months. They also work to foster a love of reading through public library programs and services and increase successful reading experiences through librarian-supported, self-selected, voluntary reading. Libraries across the state offer Summer Reading Programs (SRP) to support literacy development in New York communities by encouraging reading and engaging communities through activities.
Transforming Teen Services
Transforming Teen Services (T3) is a training initiative that focuses on supporting library staff working with and for teens to better understand their emotional and social development and understand how connected learning and computational thinking can work together to build equity-based services for and with teens.
Youth Services Basics Online Course
A new and comprehensive self-paced Youth Services Basics online course is available for public library staff throughout the state! This program is a great introduction for new Youth Services Librarians and it's intended to enhance the skills of experienced professionals with information about current trends and topics. The course is organized into four sections to allow library workers to select specific modules or take the entire course at their pace. After each section, participants will take a short quiz and survey to earn a certificate of completion that can be applied towards professional development hours.
Digital Equity
Libraries across New York leverage local partnerships to ensure that community members have the opportunity to develop the digital skills that allow them to fully participate in public life.
On-Demand Resources for Everyone
DayByDayNY Family Literacy Calendar
DaybyDayNY is a website for young children and their families featuring an interactive calendar. The calendar uses multimedia to enhance books, songs, and family health and bring these components to life. Each month features a different book, with paired activities for each day of the month.
NOVELny Databases for Students
Provided by the New York State Library, NOVELny is an online library connecting New Yorkers to 21st century information via libraries and library systems statewide. Explore database resources for elementary, middle, and high school audiences.
Literacy at the New York State Education Department (NYSED)
NYSED’s Literacy Initiative reflects our understanding of the critical role literacy plays in shaping the future of individuals and communities. Dig in to literacy with NYSED’s The Science of Reading Literacy Briefs.
Perspectives from the DEI Toolkit
The Office of Cultural Education provides additional insight into the impacts of reading on young readers in its DEI Toolkit. Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors highlights the importance of diversity and accessibility in library collections. Children who always see themselves reflected in books suffer from not seeing others in books. Children who do not see themselves in books or see negative images learn they are devalued when constantly portrayed in that way. Diverse collections celebrate our similarities and differences.