By: Kyle Balzer, Tri-City News
Restrictions on gatherings have loosened across B.C., but COVID-19 is still providing unease for some Tri-City families.
Those specifically with kids under the age of five may want to go to specific places, but the pandemic's current state can still leave an uncomfortable feeling for parents or caregivers.
The Coquitlam Public Library (CPL) is hoping to mitigate the stigma by offering a new story-time program that can meet the needs of anyone wanting to get involved.
Dubbed as 'hybrid' story times, families will have the option moving forward to either attend the readings in person at the City Centre branch (1169 Pinetree Way) or live-stream from home.
Library staff are set to host a pair of age-catered story sessions:
Baby Story Time
- Children zero to two years old
- Concentrates on songs, finger plays and rhymes that help children gain pre-reading skills
Toddler Plus Story Time
- Children two to five years old
- Adds more picture books into the mix and introduces children to the love of reading
When signing up for either of these readings, the CPL explains parents and caregivers can choose to attend in person or to watch it from home via a Zoom link provided by the organization.
Those wishing to visit the City Centre branch can add guests while registering, meaning a person can bring more than one child to the library.
For more information about the hybrid story times, you can visit the Coquitlam Public Library's website.