National Institute 2026

Looking for ways your library could improve its resources for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers? Want to be a part of improving literacy in your community? Start with the babies! Adding toys and tubs to your library system requires money and time, but it's a worthwhile investment in your youngest patron population. The Springfield-Greene County Library District has built a unique collection of approximately 750 circulating and non-circulating toys to support early learning and literacy at home and in its 10 branches. In addition to toys, the Youth Services team has curated a collection of 34 thematic storytime tubs to support staff in providing relevant, dynamic storytimes that support early literacy and learning. An interactive training session provides staff with valuable knowledge about early childhood development and insider tips from seasoned providers to help them master the art of successful storytimes. Learn how SGCL staff have leveraged tubs, toys, and training to strengthen their collection, programming, and resources for young children, families, and staff.