King County Library System (KCLS) provides a variety of free early literacy programs to support the interests and needs of our diverse patrons. Spanish-speaking families looking for literacy programming this spring have a variety of options to choose from, including Dìa, Fiestas and Family Book Club.
KCLS Diversity Services Coordinator Jo Anderson Cavinta and Spanish Language Services Specialist Teresa Luengo Cid curate the System’s diversity programming. Anderson Cavinta speaks to KCLS’ commitment to providing multicultural programs, stating, “Creating inclusive, welcoming spaces and opportunities to reflect the voices, cultures and identities within King County’s diverse population is a high priority as diversity, equity and inclusion are core KCLS values.”
Dìa: Sunday, April 28, from 2-5pm at the Tukwila Library
Dìa, also known as Children’s Day/Book Day, is a nationally recognized initiative that connects children and their families to multicultural books, languages and cultures through activities at libraries and schools. KCLS celebrates Dìa with literacy programming for children of all backgrounds, events and curated reading lists that highlight diversity. Programming this year includes, bilingual Story Times with local celebrities—Univision Anchors Paula Lamas and Jaime Mèndez, and John Kennedy Hurtado, former Sounders’ team player; a selection of games played around the world; and Latin American playtime with “Rebeldina” that includes music by Mirta Wymerszberg and Stuart Zobel. A full list of programming can be found at kcls.org/dia.
Fiestas: From April to May, multiple dates and locations
Fiestas workshops help families prepare for early literacy and school readiness, and children newborn to age 5 are welcome to join in on the fun. The series of eight workshops include The Importance of Bilingualism; Talking; Playing; Singing; Letters and Sounds; Reading; The School System in the U.S.; and Writing. Advanced registration is encouraged, as space is limited.
Family Book Club in Spanish: Second Wednesday of every month, from 6-7pm, at the Black Diamond Library; and from 4:30-5:30pm at the Shoreline Library
Family Book Club strengthens literacy skills through book discussions and fun activities. Designed for families with children ages 5 to 10, this Spanish-reading program gives children the opportunity to analyze stories, learn new vocabulary and develop critical thinking and comprehension skills.
