Gilford library benefits from grant from Children’s Museum of New Hampshire

GILFORD — The Children’s Room at Gilford Public Library was recently awarded a grant from the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire, receiving a box of sensory play items for its local circulation.

Now, the library can better provide learning-based experiences to its youngest visitors.

“We have the ability to expand on doing more programming with sensory play. Play is one of the early literacy skills that is highlighted,” said J’Lillian Mello, children’s room librarian at Gilford Public Library. “It is important and crucial.”

Items include Legos, building blocks, and cooking and farm animal toys that can be used in the sand or in the children’s room. Some items will be permanent fixtures at the library, while others can be checked out with a library card.

“As experts in play-based learning, we have received several grants over the last three to four years that allow us to share our knowledge with NH libraries, day care centers and family resource centers,” said Neva Cole, communications director with the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire.

According to a recent press release from the children's museum, the organization received a grant from Kennebunk Savings to collaborate with 25 libraries in the state, Gilford Public Library being one of them.

Participants were provided with play-based learning kits of materials, 10 months of activity guides, and training, with a goal of advancing knowledge and use of the materials in children’s rooms and child care centers.

Sensory Play, a new program at Gilford Public Library, will begin in July, and is largely due to this grant, which is valued at several hundred dollars.

“Our goal in working to increase utilization of play-based learning is to deepen learning experiences and help children be better prepared for success when they enter kindergarten classrooms,” said Jane Bard, president of CMNH, in the release.

For more information, visit gilfordlibrary.org.

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Katlyn Proctor can be reached at katlyn@laconiadailysun.com or by calling 603-524-0150.