What is Wisconsin Bookworms™?
2009-2010 Booklist
Wisconsin Bookworms™ Contest
Wisconsin Bookworms™ provides free books, activities and "reading buddies" to thousands of kids who wouldn't otherwise have book of their own. The project is a collaboration of the Wisconsin Association for Home and Community Education, UW-Extension Family Living Programs and Head Start.
Every weekday, Wisconsin Public Television broadcasts "Wisconsin
PBS Kids," programs for children that include Sesame Street and Reading
Rainbow. These programs motivate children to explore the fun and adventure
of reading.
Beginning in 1998, WPT went beyond its commitment to "Wisconsin PBS
Kids" with an exciting outreach effort, culminating in a broadcast
called Wisconsin Read in: First Book. This project is now known as Wisconsin
Bookworms™. Eight times per year, more than 5,000 books, are being
distributed free of charge to young children who would not otherwise have
a chance to cherish a book of their own.
The Wisconsin Bookworms™ project reaches out to Wisconsin children ages 2–5 in families of financial need and gives them the tools to learn. This year, more than 50,000 books will be distributed.
But WPT doesn't stop there. Through a supportive network of parents, providers and state child care associations, we've developed a reading program whereby readers meet with a child 8 times during the year, bringing new books and additional educational materials each time. The Wisconsin Bookworms™ program is an ambitious attempt to strengthen public television's commitment to preparing children for school.
Wisconsin Bookworms™ is a partnership project with University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension Family Living Programs and the Wisconsin Association for Home and Community Education. Read a UW-Extension impact report prepared by Family Living Programs (PDF).
Get the current Wisconsin Bookworms™ booklist. Each title has an accompanying Activity Sheet.
Get
the booklist
Literacy Resources
American Library Association features helpful information, including book lists and workshop opportunities.
Reading Is Fundamental offers free literacy kits and great book lists for all ages.
American Literacy Council has tools that encourage literacy as well as other reading tips and practices.
Wisconsin State Reading Association offers books and literacy programs open to Wisconsin residents.
The Children's Literature Web Guide includes discussion boards, award-winning books and commentary on children's books.
The National Institute for Literacy has many valuable links and facts about literacy.
The U.S. Department of Education has many tips about reading to children and even provides information on how to make your own book.
Your public library is an excellent source of information!
Materials and Tips
Libraries can
be found all over Wisconsin and each offers FREE borrower cards.
To get a library card, you will need two things:
- Photo ID
- Proof of current residence
A driver's license with a current residence listed is the easiest to use, but you can also use a photo ID plus:
- Checkbook with name and current address printed on it
- A current lease with your name on it
- A piece of mail addressed to you with your current address and a postmark dated within the last 30 days
Search for your library system and find your community library at the Department for Public Instruction Web site!
Cooperative Children's Book Center at University of Wisconsin-Madison is a wonderful resource for anyone living in the state of Wisconsin. They can provide free materials and have a knowledgeable staff that can help with any questions you may have.
Explore a selection of some of the many helpful lists and tips that can be found at the CCBC.
Get ready to GO! in our new place for big kids!
Come play with all your favorite PBS KIDS characters!
