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Through sharing language, dedicating quality time, and imparting essential knowledge, families are actively shaping the future, preparing Montana's youngest citizens for a lifetime of growth and learning.

This collection provides training for librarians that champions the undeniable impact parents and caregivers have on early literacy, and empowers parents and caregivers while enhancing reading programs.

Librarians, please share these programs with the families and caregivers in your communities, and make them your own. Parents and caregivers, if you found this early literacy page while searching for ways to engage and learn with a child, please know these programs are supplied to Montana libraries with your families in mind and you are welcome to use them.  

 

The tools you need: get Ready 2 Read

Families and caregivers shape early literacy through shared language, quality time, and playful learning. Librarians: please share and adapt these programs for your communities. Parents and caregivers: these resources are provided with your families in mind—please use them freely. 

Visit the Ready2Read website

MSL Texting Program (ages 0–4)

Receive simple, research‑informed tips and activities by text message to support early language and learning.

Enroll online   

Or text MSL to 70138.

Librarians: share printable outreach materials: PDF - PNG

Books Before Bedtime (ages 0–5)

A monthly virtual storytime with a mailed book box (limit one per family, up to 100 boxes per month). Registration is open.

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

A fun, family‑friendly challenge to read 1,000 books before your child starts kindergarten. Track your progress with the statewide Beanstack challenge (web or app).

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Free, high‑quality books mailed monthly to children from birth to age five. Find your program to sign up. 
Training for Librarians

 

Supercharged Storytimes

A self‑paced course with videos, readings, activities, and reflections to help you apply research‑based practices that boost early literacy in storytimes.

Ready 2 Read Goes Wild

A joint project with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks using Montana animals and nature to inspire language, literacy, math, science, and wonder in young learners.

Growing Up Wild: Outdoor education/activities for 3-7 year olds
Project Wild: Outdoor education and activities for kids 8+
This program is possible thanks to our participating libraries, and Ryan Schmaltz and Danielle Oyler at Fish Wildlife and Parks.
Supplemental Materials

Bear Coloring Book

Bear Bookmarks

Bears 101 from National Geographic Video

Bear Trunk Libraries

Choteau/Teton Public Library

Madison Valley Public Library

Stillwater County Library

Glacier County Library

Red Lodge Carnegie Library

Rosebud County Library

Bat Trunk Libraries

Lewis and Clark County Library

Havre-Hill County Library

Flathead County Library - Kalispell

Billings Public Library

Reimagining School Readiness

This training program includes free resources and practical strategies for librarians, children, and caregivers that prepare children for success in school.

Lifelong Learning