Hinsdale Public Library Foundation-

"KidSmarts- Learning through Fun" is the Hinsdale Public Library Foundation's most recent project.

In just two months, the Hinsdale Library Foundation raised $19,080 for the library's initiative, "KidSmarts- Learning Through Fun." The money was used to purchase four new computers, as well as software, furniture, carpet and paint in the Youth Services Department. The children love it!

We thank our donors for their generosity in funding this wonderful new opportunity for children.

Why KidSmarts?
"KidSmarts" supports the Library's mission statement in that it will: "Serve as the doorway to learning for pre-school children" and "Serve as a perpetual learning environment by supplementing school library resources."
Our new computers are loaded with educational and learning software programs.
These programs give our children an opportunity to improve reading and math skills, explore science activities, solve mysteries and tap into their imaginations through art activities.
Practicing their skills with these software programs gives young children a head start in school and gives older kids the confidence they need as they continue to build upon their knowledge.
These computers give many children their first introduction to computers which builds computer literacy.
... And to top it off, it is just plain fun!

Why KidSmarts Is Important
The Youth Services Department had only three learning computers, each of which were eight years old.
New graphics enhanced software could not be loaded on the computers and these computers have many repair problems. Over 100 problems had been logged per month for more than one year!
Headphones used by kids and parents to listen and respond to the learning software were constantly in need of being replaced and sometimes we simply ran out of headphones. With KidSmarts we would have a supply of headphones on-hand.
KidSmarts would enhances the Library experience for kids.
KidSmarts gives our children four up-to-date computers with large monitors and more software choices.
KidSmarts gives more children the opportunity to play and learn.

Community Partnering
With the addition of KidSmarts, the Library offers many of the same learning and educational software programs that your child finds at schools in District 181, such as Wild West Math, Penny Panda's Sticker Store and Learn to Type.

Our Donor's Support Allows the Library To
Afford children the opportunity to improve reading and math skills, explore science and stretch their imaginations.
Introduce preschoolers to more computer programs and allow those familiar with them to gain confidence in using them.
Give children and parents a shared educational adventure at the Library with mentally engaging software choices.
Be responsive to parents' requests for improved computers and upgrade important technology.

KidSmarts is a Hinsdale Public Library Foundation Initiative

Please feel free to contact us with your suggestions for other initiatives.