First Graders Invited to Participate in GOAL Program

First Graders Invited to Participate in GOAL Program
 
 
YORK, PA – First grade students are invited to sign up for a library card through their school classrooms this month as part of York County Libraries Annual Grade One At the Library (GOAL) program. Since its inception in 2008, the GOAL program has given library cards to 47,182 York County first graders. 
 
“By participating in the GOAL program, children are not just getting library cards, they are being invited to explore all of the amazing resources that York County Libraries offer. Library cards give them new access to a wide variety of fun and free educational programs,” says York County Libraries Youth Services Director Mindy McDonnell. “They are introduced to high-quality databases and reference materials that will support them through school and beyond. And, of course, they can read a robust collection of high-interest books and other media.”
 
The annual initiative is made possible thanks to the generous support of presenting sponsor Orrstown Bank. Participating students are encouraged to visit any York County library location to check out some books and pick up participation prizes. One of the top prizes is a copy of "Who Made this Mess?” written by this this year’s featured GOAL Author Laura Gehl. In addition to getting a copy of the book, first grade students and their families can meet the author during the GOAL Celebration event in November. 
 
Gehl is the sixth nationally known children’s author selected to encourage York County first grade students to read. The author of more than forty popular books for young readers, her work includes “I Got a Chicken for My Birthday”, “My Pillow Keeps Moving, Except When They Don’t”, and “Apple and Magnolia.” Gehl has received many awards and honors, including Kirkus Best Picture Books of the Year Selection, Junior Library Guild Selection, and Booklist Editors’ Choice. Previous GOAL authors include Tedd Arnold, Will Hillenbrand, Peter Catalanotto, Lindsay Barrett George, and Anthony D. Fredericks. Each author is involved for three years and visits York to inspire children to read and learn.  
 
“A library card is one of the most important school supplies that a parent can provide their child,” says York County Libraries President Robert F. Lambert. “When children visit the library with their families, they can select and borrow books that they are excited to read. The library has a collection of early reader books that are designed to help children progressively practice and strengthen their new reading skills.”
     
York County Libraries include 13 libraries that provide the latest in print and electronic information, best sellers, Wi-Fi, story times, book discussions and more. Their librarians are passionate advocates for lifelong learning, providing literacy programs and resources for all ages. To learn more about York County Libraries’ programs, services, and resources, go to yorklibraries.org.  
 
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