MARINETTE, Wis. — Early exposure to reading can be an important factor in children’s success. Reading, rhyming, singing, and talking profoundly influence literacy and language development — the foundations for all other learning.

To meet the needs of children in the local communities, the Marinette County Public Libraries will be offering virtual storytimes during the month of October.

These interactive events offer children, parents, and caregivers an opportunity to share a fun learning experience. Library events are free and available to children throughout the county.

This fall, Preschool Storytime for ages 3-6 will be held on Tuesday mornings at 10 a.m. Lara Lakari will read stories, sing, rhyme, and talk with participants.

Weekly themes will include apples, smiles, ice cream, and marvelous monsters.

For more fun and learning, an optional “Play Along” kit is available on a limited basis. The kit will include activities and materials that can be used to participate more fully with some activities but are not needed.

Pre-registration is required for these sessions and is available by contacting the library, using the link from the Stephenson Public Library Facebook event, or registering online at https://tinyurl.com/VPST20.

For the youngest set, Itsy Bitsy Storytime will be live on Wednesday mornings in October at 10 a.m. These short interactive sessions will include singing favorite songs, sharing a short story, and rhyming together for ages birth to 3.

No registration is necessary.

To find the storytime visit the Stephenson Public Library Facebook page and join the SPL Clubhouse group. The feed will start a few minutes early so that you can find it and get ready.

Questions about any of these programs should be directed to the Children’s Department at the Marinette Branch by calling 715-732-7570.