The challenge was active between June 1 and Aug. 9 this year. The final tally shows that 8,384 registered participants logged 4,632,415 minutes of reading. There were 2,380 participants who completed the challenge – 1,000 minutes read for adults and 500 minutes for children.

Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

“I’m thrilled that the Mayor’s Summer Reading Challenge inspired Fort Worth residents to read more than 4.6 million minutes this summer,” said Mayor Mattie Parker. “Reading strengthens minds, sparks imagination, and opens doors to opportunity, and I’m proud of the dedication shown by our kids and readers of all ages in reaching this milestone.

Whether you’re reading for entertainment, discovery, or simply the love of learning, let’s continue this momentum all year long.”

The challenge might be over, but Fort Worth readers can continue to track their reading in Beanstack, find reading suggestions, explore fun activities and use a variety of resources available inside libraries and to check out and take home.

Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

Don’t stop now!

Families with young children are invited to weekly story times and participate in 1000 Books Before Kindergarten, designed to help little learners gain literacy skills before starting school. The Kinder Prep program offers weekly lessons that simulate what children will experience in the classroom in a fun, supportive setting.

Adults are encouraged to explore a variety of Fort Worth Public Library book clubs across the city, some focusing on specific genres. What Fort Worth Reads is a weekly Instagram livestream that highlights adult reading recommendations.

The post Fort Worthians Break Record This Summer first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

“Summertime in our public libraries is about exploration and reading for fun,” said Library Director Midori Clark.

To encourage more reading for everyone and combat the summer slide in young readers, the Fort Worth Mayor’s Summer Reading Challenge is back after a record-setting 2024, with participants reading more than 4.5 million minutes. In partnership with the Fort Worth Mayor’s Office, this program encourages residents and families to spend more time reading this summer.

Photo courtesy of Fort Worth Public Library

“We know that students lose on average about 20% of their school-year gains in reading during the summer break,” said Mayor Mattie Parker. “The Mayor’s Summer Reading Challenge encourages our kids to spend more time reading this summer vacation to prevent that backslide.”

Within the challenge, reading minute milestones are tracked easily in the Beanstack app or website, and prizes are awarded at local library locations when participants complete the challenge. Residents can sign up 24/7 in the Beanstack app (iOS and Android) and anyone who needs help can ask the Library’s staff on their next visit.

When participants sign up for the challenge, they can earn a free short stack from IHOP. There are prizes along the way like free books, tote bags and more. The real prize might be in finding a new favorite author, story, or library experience – like story times with free admission to the Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge, the first Monday of each month, all summer long.

“Reading and literacy is foundational in a thriving community,” said Parker, “And our wonderful libraries make it so much fun for Fort Worth families through this initiative.”

The post Having Fun While Fighting the Summer Slide first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Fort Worth Public Library cardholders can score ONE FREE TICKET to Mayfest when they present their card at any Fort Worth Public Library location. Mayfest is set for May 1-4 at Trinity Park.

Anyone who has a valid Fort Worth Public Library card, or visitors can sign up for one at the Library to receive one free ticket. Tickets are available now through Saturday, May 3, while supplies last.

The free tickets are available at any Fort Worth Public Library.

The post Free Mayfest Tickets from the Library first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

The classes are designed for teens and adults and are available on a first-come-first-served basis at no cost to participants. Instruction is focused on hands-only CPR and AED use and is not a certification course.

“Knowing how to perform hands-only CPR and use life-saving tools like AEDs can make a difference in the critical minutes before first responders arrive,” said Fire Chief Jim Davis. “I’m proud we are offering this type of training to the public at no cost.”

According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR is proven to double or triple the chances of survival after cardiac arrest. Timely and accurate AED use can also improve survival rates.

“The response to our free, fall CPR classes was incredible, and we wanted more people to have the chance to learn these life-saving skills,” said Library Director Midori Clark. “So, what better time than Heart Month? ”

Spanish interpreters will attend six sessions to assist if needed, noted below with an asterisk.

Upcoming CPR/AED classes:

• Saturday, 1, at 2 p.m. – Summerglen Library
• Tuesday, 4, at 6:30 p.m. – Ella Mae Shamblee Library*
• Thursday, 6, at 6:30 p.m. – Northwest Library
• Saturday, 8, at 3 p.m. – East Berry Library*
• Sunday, 9, at 2 p.m. – Southwest Regional Library*
• Tuesday, 11, at 6:30 p.m. – Riverside Library
• Saturday, 15, at 2 p.m. – Golden Triangle Library*
• Wednesday, 19, at 6:30 p.m. – Northside Library*
• Thursday, 20, at 6:30 p.m. – Vivian J. Lincoln Library
• Saturday, 22, at 2 p.m. – Wedgwood Library
• Sunday, 23, at 2 p.m. – East Regional Library
• Wednesday, 26, at 6:30 p.m. – Ridglea Library
• Friday, 28, at 5 p.m. – Meadowbrook Library*

The post First Responders to Teach Life-Saving Skills at Fort Worth Libraries first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Joining the newcomers with a second album are current Amplify 817 artists Cherry Mantis, Keegan McInroe, JOE, Panoramic Duo, and Simon Flory.

“We’re excited to close out 2024 with a fresh batch of talented artists, offering listeners even more local music to discover and enjoy,” said Rita Alfaro, music librarian.

After being reviewed and selected by a panel of Fort Worth music supporters, artists receive a $300 honorarium for a three-year license to host their music on the site. Funding for honorariums is provided by donors to the Fort Worth Public Library Foundation.

Amplify 817 continually expands its commercial-free collection of local music through bi-annual artist submission rounds (one in winter and another in summer). The collection currently features over 100 artists offering listeners a diverse range of genres.

“Every city has its unique voices and stories to share, and Amplify 817 is proud to play a part in uplifting those in Fort Worth’s bustling music scene,” said Midori Clark, Fort Worth Public Library Director.

The post Amplify 817 Adds Local Musicians first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

The challenge was active between June 1 and Aug. 10 this year. The final tally shows that 8,608 registered participants logged 4,537,912 minutes of reading. More than 2,300 people completed the challenge – 1,000 minutes read for adults and 500 minutes for children.

“I’m thrilled that the Mayor’s Summer Reading Challenge led Fort Worth residents to read over 4.5 million minutes this summer,” said Mayor Mattie Parker. “I’m incredibly proud of the time readers of all ages dedicated to making this happen. Keep the momentum going – read for enjoyment or exploring or for whatever motivates you to continue learning all year round.”

The challenge might be over, but Fort Worth readers can continue to track their reading in Beanstack, find reading suggestions, explore fun activities and use a variety of resources available inside libraries and to check out and take home.

Don’t stop now!

Families with young children are invited to weekly story times and the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten, designed to help little learners gain literacy skills before starting school. The Kinder Prep program offers weekly lessons that simulate what children will experience in the classroom in a fun, supportive setting.

Adults are encouraged to explore a variety of Fort Worth Public Library book clubs across the city, some focusing on specific genres. The Stay at Home Book Club, launched during the pandemic, caters to busy readers who prefer eBooks and discussion on Facebook.

The post We Painted the Town READ first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Sign up for the free program when you’re at your favorite Fort Worth Public Library location. Pick up a 1000 Books Before Kindergarten booklet for tips and tracking and a tote bag (while supplies last) to make transporting library books to and from your home easier. Grownups can also use the free Beanstack app to digitally record the number of books their child reads. Once your child reaches designated milestones along the way, bring them to the Library to pick out a fun prize.

The fast track to 1,000

The goal is for your child to read or have read to them 1,000 books before they start school – a large number that melts quickly when you make reading a daily priority. Reading just one book a day – 365 in a year – means reaching the 1,000-book goal in three years. Read more than one book a day to put your child on the fast track.

Tayla Wilshire knows. She and her 14-month-old are just a few months into the program, but by late April had logged more than 160 books. She first learned of 1000 Books Before Kindergarten from other moms in the baby story time they attend at the Reby Cary Youth Library and from library staff members.

“I make it part of our nighttime routine. That’s the best way to make sure we will read at least one book in a day but usually read two to three books,” Wilshire said. “I think that books are so important for everyone, but especially as my child is developing language and then imagination. We learn so much from books and it’s so important to start young.”

That kind of thinking is music to librarian Angela Barratt’s ears. She helps coordinate and develop youth programs for the Fort Worth Public Library, but also has a little one at home who is on the road to reading 1000 Books Before Kindergarten.

“Taking the time to read to our children provides a special time to bond,” Barratt said. “1000 Books Before Kindergarten provides a framework and way to keep track that’s easy to follow and fun for little ones and parents.”

Make reading fun for everyone

It all starts with signing up and opening that first book. Any book a child reads or has read to them – including weekly Library story times or at daycare – counts toward the goal. But there are even greater rewards.

April Jacquez and her son sign up for 1000 Books Before Kindergarten recently at the Fort Worth Public Library’s Ridglea Branch.
Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

April Jacquez and her son sign up for 1000 Books Before Kindergarten recently at the Fort Worth Public Library’s Ridglea Branch.
Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

“In our busy lives, taking the time to read to your child provides an easy, no-pressure dose of quality time,” Barratt said. “It’s fun to hear your child giggle at your silly voices and sound effects, and to learn more about what interests them as they get old enough to pick out what book to read next.”

Reading a book more than once also counts as one book each time it is read. Some children love a particular story or character so much that they’ll want to read a book over and over (and over).

Which brings us to another tip from Wilshire: “Find books that you as a parent enjoy, too.”

Not sure where to start? Learn more about 1000 Books Before Kindergarten at fwpl.info/1000books. Visit one of our Fort Worth Public Library branches and to speak with a librarian to sign up. Find book suggestions and our story time schedule at fwpl.info/StoryTime.

The post Ready… Set… READ! first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

“The Fort Worth Public Library has a record of creating unique programs and finding innovative ways to support city-wide efforts to improve literacy,” said Library Director Midori Clark, “Summertime in public libraries is about exploration and reading for fun.”

Across Fort Worth, to encourage exploration, libraries will host more than a thousand free, quality programs for various interests and ages. In addition to the cultural, educational and entertaining programs provided year-round, the summer lineup includes entertaining performers, special story time guest readers, musical performances and more.

Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

Returning this summer, to encourage more reading and combat the summer slide, is the Fort Worth Mayor’s Summer Reading Challenge. In partnership with the Fort Worth Mayor’s Office, this program encourages residents and families to spend more minutes reading this summer.

“It’s incredibly important to encourage our young readers. We know that students lose on average about 20 percent of their school-year gains in reading during the summer break,” said Mayor Mattie Parker. “I am glad to partner with our incredible Library team to encourage a summer spent with more time reading.”

Reading minute milestones are tracked easily in the Beanstack app or website, and prizes are awarded at local library locations when participants complete the challenge. Residents can sign up 24/7 in the Beanstack app (iOS and Android) and anyone who needs help can ask the Library’s staff on their next visit.

“Literacy is foundational in a thriving community, and whether you’re challenging yourself, your friends, or your family members, setting goals to read more minutes is fun with the library’s support,” said Parker.

Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

As participants continue to enjoy the unique, engaging experiences they come to expect in Library summer programming, they can look forward to the exciting development of a new year-round program for continually engaging with the Library’s activities and programs. During this development phase, participants in reading challenges will not see activity badges in Beanstack.

“Our library staff is currently developing a year-round program for residents that incentivizes participation in library activities and learning opportunities,” said Clark, “I want to give our staff time to develop the best program possible. We intend to introduce it to Fort Worth residents in January 2025.”

Residents are encouraged to explore the Library’s online calendar, sign up for their local branch newsletter and talk with staff about the free programs offered at their neighborhood locations. Library cards are not required for participation in any public library event or program but are encouraged so patrons gain access to more than one million items available to check out.

“As a child who grew up in the melting pot of public libraries, I cannot wait to experience a Texas-size summer of fun in my first summer in Fort Worth,” said Clark. “I encourage everyone to sign up for the reading challenge, visit their libraries and explore all the exciting programs our talented team has created.”

The post Fort Worth Public Library Is Ready for a Summer of Fun first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Madeworthy: Made in Fort Worth is a feature all about Fort Worth traditions, of which the FWPL certainly is one. Can you give me the CliffsNotes version of the history of the FWPL?

Jana Hill: … the original building opened in 1901, funded by Andrew Carnegie, and led by local women’s club powerhouse, Jennie Scott Scheuber. The second floor was a gallery space used to exhibit artworks that ultimately formed the collection of [what became] the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth… Recognizing the need for locations beyond the downtown location, Wedgwood was our first branch library, opening in 1962. The neighboring Vivian J. Lincoln branch is our newest location, opening this past summer. Today the Fort Worth Public Library has eighteen locations and circulated over three million items in the past year.

MW: The modern library is about much more than just checking out books. How does the FWPL serve all aspects of their patrons?

JH: First, we check out more than books! FWPL card holders can also check out musical instruments, outdoor games, programmable robots, STEAM kits, babysitting kits, and even karaoke machines and metal detectors. The FWPL also strives to serve as a “third place” for the community beyond the confines of home or the workplace. Public libraries are one of the only places you can spend time without being expected to spend money while you are there. To this end, we offered over 7,000 free programs and events for people of all ages in 2023 [which] provide the opportunity to learn new things and become more involved in your community. It’s so rewarding to see connections being made and friendships forming in our programs!

Adult crafts
Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

MW: The FWPL has some great programs for older patrons. Can you address some of the special needs of your senior patrons and how these programs address them? 

JH: We find that older adults want the same things everyone else does – to enjoy meaningful relationships, be part of their community, and participate in engaging activities. But older adults can also feel isolated by changes in their families, being out of the workforce, or facing health and financial challenges. All our adult programs are senior-friendly, but our programs for older adults are designed specifically to address these needs. We offer Senior Social Hours at several branches, plus La Hora de los Abuelos, a social program especially for older adults who speak Spanish. Older adults may also be interested in our local history and genealogy programs, book clubs, knit and crochet clubs, creative writing clubs, painting clubs, computer classes, or chair yoga… it’s never too late to learn something new!

MW: We know that the library has long been THE place for moms and kids, and we have a lot of mom readers. What are your top three favorite programs for moms and children?

JH: As a mom myself, I really love that FWPL offers specialized story times for a variety of age groups, from babies on up… [which] include songs and activities that really engage the kiddos and parents. Now that my son is a little older, we love attending the Brick Builders LEGO program and Family Science Time programs together. They are both offered in many branches, so we can always find a program that works with our busy schedule.

Baby bags
Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

MW: Speaking of children, tell me a little about the Reby Cary Youth Library!

JH: The Reby Cary Youth Library is an amazing place and a destination for families all over the DFW area. It’s Fort Worth’s first library designed specifically for children and their caregivers – from the collection to the furniture to the play areas and garden. The building is light and bright, with glass walls, interactive public art, kid-friendly furniture, and fun extras like LEGO tables, a play kitchen, a puppet theater, and youth programming every day. Adults can only access the building if they are accompanying a child, so it is a very special place.

MW: Tell me a little about how the FWPL fosters a sense of community in a city as diverse as Fort Worth.

JH: In a library system this large, that can be a real challenge. We start by building a sense of community among our staff of 240, by creating opportunities for collaboration and building support systems across locations and specialties. We look closely at each location and consider the people it serves, organizations it partners with, and what sets that community apart. We recognize and celebrate what makes each community unique, and the entire staff works hard to find those commonalities that bring everyone together.

We also foster community by being an active part of it… going beyond the walls of the library. You will see our outreach team at practically every large event in Fort Worth, and our staff regularly attend neighborhood meetings, school functions, and community gatherings of all kinds.

Painting Club
Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

MW: Fort Worth has an incredibly rich arts scene. How does the FWPL collaborate with our local arts organizations to promote the arts in our city?

JH: Arts and culture are… so essential to our mission that they are written directly into our strategic plan. We do… programming on a regular basis with The Cliburn and the Amon Carter Museum [among many others]. Through our Amplify 817 music streaming platform and live concerts, we also work closely with Hear Fort Worth, Arts Fort Worth, and music venues to ensure that local musicians get community support, exposure, and opportunities to perform at library branches and beyond.

MW: Can you give our readers a sneak peek at what the FWPL has in store for us in 2024?

JH: We have so many exciting things in the works for 2024! We will open Clifford Crossing, our first branch west of Loop 820, with a collection hand-picked for that community and plenty of great programs for every age group. Elephant and Piggie, from the popular children’s book series by Mo Willems, will be making appearances at libraries this spring and a new Storytime in the Park series will also kick off at city parks around town. Grownups should keep their eye out for all-new adult cultural programs happening citywide, a new ESL for Parents class at the Reby Cary Youth Library, and specially developed programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In June, we will host a huge kickoff part for our summer reading program and live, all-ages concerts at various libraries. It’s going to be a tremendous year and we can’t wait for you to join us!

Teen robotics
Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

The post Made in Fort Worth: Yes, It IS the Library! first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

The new service, “Open Access”, allows a cardholder 18 years and older to use their Fort Worth Public Library card to enter the building during set extended hours each day when the library is normally closed. Visitors may use their library for self-service functions such as checking out materials, printing/copying documents and using public computers. Existing cardholders must agree to specific service terms and have staff enable Open Access on patron library cards before accessing the service.

“Open Access is just another way we are working to remove barriers between the public and the resources available inside our buildings,” said Library Director Manya Shorr. “We are looking to implement this service at locations where, for example, we see a large commuter population that may have difficulty accessing the library during the day. We’ll expand this service with careful consideration.”

Open Access started at Northwest on Sept. 3.

The post Library Opens Access Outside Regular Hours first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.