Adelante Bilingual publication

BUSCADOR

survival kit for PARENTS-TO-BE

Libraries offer literature for freshman parents

By Melissa Ebberts
Adelante staff writer

Parent Packs at the Columbia Public Library offer an assortment of literature in English and Spanish.

Awaiting the birth of a child can be exciting and confusing, especially for first-time mothers and fathers.
Now there’s an easy way for young parents-to-be to get answers. And best of all, it’s free.
The Daniel Boone Regional Libraries offer Parent Packs in both Spanish and English. The packs contain books, brochures and a video for expecting parents and may be checked out for a three-week period. In order to check out any material from the library, including a Parent Pack, one must have a library card.
Cards are available for free. An adult must show proof of a current residence and a picture I.D. A Social Security number is not needed. A house lease, utility payment or any other document that confirms the address will be accepted. A brief application form needs to be filled out and then a person may check out books, videos or a Parent Pack that same day.
Children’s librarian Sarah Howard stressed that the library’s records are confidential. They use the addresses, she said, just to mail information to the patron regarding the library account, such as an overdue book.
Anybody can come and check out books and their confidentiality is protected.
“You have the right to privacy while you are here,” Howard said.
Children can even get a library card and check out their own books, but they must be accompanied by a parent when they sign up for the card.
The Parent Packs include information about pregnancy and development of the baby, raising multicultural children, health and nutrition tips for mothers and a baby-name book.
A few of the books are titled “Healthy Mother, Healthy Baby (Mamá Sana, Bebé Sano)” and “What to Expect When You Are Expecting (Qué se puede esperar cuando se está esperando).” An exercise video helps mothers stay active during pregnancy.
The libraries began providing these materials in English five years ago in conjunction with the Women’s Assistance League, said Doyne McKenzie, collection development manager for the Columbia Public Library.
One year ago, the libraries began offering the Parent Packs in Spanish, but they haven’t been checked out often – but not because people aren’t interested, McKenzie said.
“If people knew they were here, they’d use them,” McKenzie said.
Parent Packs can be checked out at any of the Daniel Boone Regional Libraries in Columbia, Ashland and Fulton or at the Bookmobile.
The Bookmobile stops at a number of communities on a regular basis. For more information, call your library or pick up a flyer with the schedules.
Parents can call the library nearest them to reserve a Parent Pack.
Spanish-speakers at the libraries may be available from time to time; however, the libraries do not have designated bilingual staff members.
Communities and location of stops: