CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The Kanawha County Public Library will begin a book program next month aimed at putting more books into the hands of babies.
The OWL Books Program will launch April 24 at all eight open locations in the system.
Katie Murray, children’s services coordinator at the library, said anyone will be able to participate in the initiative.
“Even if you’re blocked by fines, overdues, etc., on your regular card, you can still get an OWL card,” Murray said.
Those interested in the program will be able to check out a bag with 10 children’s books, and will be allowed to keep the bag for one year. No fines will result from losing the books as long as the bag is returned.
Research has shown children with early literature exposure stimulates early brain development and builds literacy skills.
Murray said the OWL Books Program will go for one year before being reevaluated, adding taxpayer dollars are not going towards the project.
“Our Friends of the Library generously funded this project,” Murray said, though did not speccify how much money is involved in the effort.
The books are targeted to children who are 3 years old or younger.