Preschool story time builds early literacy with lively storytelling that appeals to young children.

At preschool storytime, books aren’t just words on pages, but stories come to life.

“It’s for all the senses. You read the story. You use animated voices. You use props and things that they can touch and feel.” said Darla Schofield.

Storytime and other children’s programming reach kids wherever they are on the path to early literacy, and help them learn in unexpected ways.

Schofield recalls a preschool-age boy with autism whose mom brought him to library children’s activities to gauge how he’d respond in a social setting.

“He was able to boost his confidence and his social skills,” Schofield said.