EARLY CHILDHOOD
EQUITY INITIATIVE

Mini-Literacy Libraries

In collaboration with Colorful World, Inc., ECEI is currently in development of multi-cultural literacy libraries on specific anti-bias topics, which will be introduced to teachers as a method of incorporating both anti-bias and literacy development into their classrooms. The mini-literacy libraries will include of a variety of literacy materials such as: books, multi-media (videos, CDs, tapes etc.), posters, authentic cultural materials, dolls and puppets etc. The libraries will also include a list of resources and distributors that are available on the topic, separate from the mini-library. Criteria for selection of mini-literacy library books and materials will include:

1. High quality materials
2. Materials which help to address issues of race, class, gender, family, disability, native language, and/or other social issues in age-appropriate ways
3. Materials showing a variety of socio-economic classes, living situations (e.g. both rural and city life) etc.
4. Elements of strong character development
5. Inclusion of different language materials as available and appropriate
6. Dolls and puppets with authentic-looking characteristics, different skin tones etc.

A curriculum guide to be developed will include a set of guidelines for adults using the materials as well as some sample activities (with thorough instructions) using the materials and how they should be presented, what questions to ask, what information children should be given etc. There will also be a few extensions of the use of the mini-libraries, activities that can be done in different areas of the curriculum to reinforce the experience of the libraries.

The curriculum guide will form the basis of the one-hour training that will be developed and will be included with the purchase of the libraries. There will be a list of adult resources - articles, books, research, web sites etc. that will give the adults more information on the topic.

The first of the mini-literacy libraries is expected by Februay of 2006 and will be available here on the ECEI website as well as on the Colorful World website.