Friends of the Fernandina Beach Library Receive Donation from WestRock For New Launchpad Technology to Support Children’s Reading Skills

The Friends of the Fernandina Beach Library (FOL) announce the receipt of a $500 donation from WestRock that will allow the purchase of five new Launchpad tablets to boost student reading skills, replacing the outdated Hooked on Phonics audio cassette system.
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Many families in the Fernandina Beach community have used the older Hooked on Phonics system for decades.  In fact, it was the highest circulating non-fiction item in the Fernandina Beach Branch Library collection for several years.  However, many of the exercises were on audio cassette and are now outdated.

The new Launchpad technology uses tablets with a variety of apps and levels. The system is designed for parents to work with their children to encourage strong reading skills. “The Fernandina Beach Branch Library is thrilled to offer this modern alternative that supports children as they learn to read,”  said Nassau County Library Director Dawn Bostwick. “The Launchpad tablets contain a variety of topics and activities that will engage children as they learn to master critical skills from letter recognition to complex spelling and comprehension. The technology provides children the chance the see and hear words simultaneously which increases retention, comprehension and vocabulary.”

The FOL is grateful to WestRock for their support and contribution allowing the purchase of this new technology for the community. The Launchpad tablets will be available through the Fernandina Beach Branch Library in October.

For further information of the Friends of the Fernandina Beach Library as well as membership information and volunteer opportunities, please visit www.fernandinaFOL.org. 
 
The Nassau County Public Library System will open for Library Visits beginning August 31, 2020 at the Fernandina Beach, Callahan and Hilliard Branch Libraries. 

Please make your appointment online at www.nassaureads.com or call 914-530-6500 to reserve a time for your visit.  Library visits are for one hour. New safety measures are in place for library visits and for passport application processing.
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Nassau Public Libraries are following guidelines as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
 
Fernandina Beach Branch
Library Visits: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm
 Thursday 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Curbside continues: Mon-Fri 10:00 an-6:00 pm
Curbside Phone (FB Only): 904-574-3586