Submitted

The Grundy County Library has been awarded $4,980 in grant funding through the Missouri Library Association Access & Innovation grant program to support a project aimed at engaging young children in technology and digital learning experiences that strengthen early literacy development and help bridge the digital divide in the community.

The project focuses on early literacy for children ages 2 to 8. The library previously had no digital resources specifically designed for this age group, and the grant funding allows the library to offer safe digital options that support both literacy and digital skill development.

Funding from the grant enabled the library to purchase and install an AWE Early Literacy Station, a computer preloaded with educational STREAM-focused software designed for children ages 2 to 8. The station does not connect to the internet, providing a secure environment for children to explore digital learning.

To further support digital learning and listening skills, four Tonieboxes were also purchased. Tonieboxes are durable speakers that use figurines with predownloaded stories and music, offering opportunities for children ages 3 and older to develop listening skills and imagination through digital storytelling.

The grant also funded the purchase of three Playaway Launchpad tablets. These tablets come preloaded with educational activities and stories designed for children ages 3 and older, with a focus on phonics, reading comprehension, and letter and number recognition. Like the other devices, the tablets do not require internet access.

The Tonieboxes and Playaway Launchpad tablets are available for checkout on adult library cards, allowing parents and guardians to bring the devices home for shared exploration and learning.

The Grundy County Jewett Norris Library has provided free materials and services to Grundy County residents since 1891. Additional information about library resources and upcoming programs is available at grundycountylibrary.org.

The project is sponsored by the Missouri Library Association’s Access & Innovation Fund grant program, which supports library technologies and innovations that improve access to services. The Missouri Library Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization dedicated to promoting library service and cooperation among libraries throughout Missouri.