TAYLOR COUNTY — A good book can transport you to a different time and place, helping you escape the realities of everyday life, but a book is not good for those who cannot read.

To help ensure that future generations have an outlet to turn to, the Taylor County Public Library (TCPL) has a mission to help teach young people the importance of reading.

“Reading encourages growth and learning in young children,” said TCPL director Alesha Tocco. “Obviously, we are huge advocates of literacy among individuals. “

And because there is a need in the community, Tocco came up with the idea of ​​starting a library literacy program, to help teach the importance of reading and early literacy.

Typically, the library teams up with elementary school teachers for an early literacy program, but now the entity is embarking on a solo mission to help children learn to read, understand what they are learning and to have fun along the way.

“We really want to start a literacy program here at the library,” Tocco explained. “But in order to do that, we will need volunteers to help us. “

The TCPL is currently looking for people who are passionate about reading to help pass this joy on to young people in the community.

“The group met once a week at the library, so if we could recruit at least four people, they would only have to attend us once a month,” Tocco revealed. “That way, one person wouldn’t take on the task all the time. “

Research has shown that reading aloud to children and intentionally teaching vocabulary prepares them for success, and Tocco believes that reading to children often in the early stages of life is very important.

Literacy, or the ability to read, write, speak, and listen in a way that enables individuals to communicate effectively and make sense of the world, is tied to everything we do.

“Literacy comes into play on a daily basis,” Tocco commented. “It’s not just about reading books or articles, but also signs, labels and messages on your phone.”

Knowing how to read and write means being able to keep abreast of current events, communicate effectively and understand the issues that shape the world.

And what better place than a public library to immerse individuals in literature of all types, including newspapers, novels, comics, magazines, movies, reference materials, and even websites.

“So if you would like to be an integral part of our new literacy program as a volunteer, please contact us,” Tocco said. “We would be very happy to receive you!”

Those interested in volunteering can contact the Taylor County Public Library by phone at 304-265-6121. Individuals can also stop by the library, located at 200, rue Beech, during their normal opening hours, Monday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.

“We will however be closed on Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Small Business Saturday,” Tocco noted. “As well as December 2-4, while we get a new rug.”

Further information on the literacy program will be released once all details are finalized.