Early literacy is one of the most important aspects of a child’s life. At Texas Hearing Institute, we encourage children not only learn to listen and speak, but READ as well. One of the best ways for children to develop spoken language is to listen to their parents read books; this is the case for children with and without hearing loss. Children benefit from listening to parents reading aloud by learning basic language and reading concepts, which are crucial to their future development of more complex language structures.
Therefore, the Melinda Webb School library is now open to both MWS students and all established Texas Hearing Institute patients and parents. Wehope to encourage children to read and gain more access to language through our library and all it has to offer. Since opening our new building in 2020 the library has always been available to Melinda Webb School students, however, the thought was always to make our library available to all Texas Hearing Institute patients and parents. Our school librarian, Sheri Middleton, is currently working todigitize the checkout process within the library. Withover 5000books, this is a large undertaking that will ultimately benefit students and parents in the future.
“One of the favorite aspects of my job is having the opportunity to sit down with every class and read them a story,” Sheri said. “It’s always reassuring to see that the students are so excited to come to the library.”
The library will be open Monday to Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursday to Friday by appointment only, as long as school is in session. To take advantage of this opportunity, please go to the Melinda Webb School lobby and let the front desk know that you are interested in seeing the library. There will be opportunities to check out books and/or take some time to read in the library.
If you show up early for an appointment or want to stay a little bit later, please feel free to take a moment to share in this new opportunity provided by Texas Hearing Institute and the Melinda Webb School. However, please keep in mind that library hours are subject to change on a weekly basis. Availability is dependent on previously scheduled library activities and librarian hours. If you have any questions about this new opportunity, please call the Melinda Webb School at (713)523-3633 or email our school librarian Sheri Middleton at smiddleton@texashearing.org.
Another unique opportunity coming up is the Scholastic Book Fair that will be at Texas Hearing Institute from November 28 through December 2, 2022. Please stop by and check out the selection of books for kids of all ages while you and your family wait for an appointment (or come with friends and family for some holiday shopping!). We hope to see you here!
