Through a grant from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, or TSLAC, the New Braunfels Public Library is slated to become a Family Place Library this fall.
According to the TSLAC, Family Place Libraries incorporate trained staff and special collections of toys, books, literacy kits and multimedia materials for children, caregivers and service providers.
Libraries must also include parent/child workshops, specially designed spaces and programs for babies and toddlers.
Until the New Braunfels library incorporates these features later this year, area parents and caregivers can access the national Bright by Text program that provides users with expert tips, games and child development information through text messages.
“Texting is a quick, easy way to get information out to busy families, so we’re very excited to provide this service to our community,” said Jenny Rodriguez, youth services manager for the NBPL, in a press release. “Not only will you get tips specific to your child’s age, you will also receive texts about the library’s programming and news from our local partners.”
In addition to content from experts, Bright by Text includes information about resources specific to New Braunfels like local library programming, food pantries and preschool open enrollment periods.
Parents and caregivers with children under the age of eight can sign up by texting “FAMILYPLACE” to 274448 and will receive two to four messages per week. For more information, visit the library’s website or call 830-221-4300.