The Winston County Friends of the Library organization was recently named the recipient of the 2021 Margaret Murray Grant. Sponsored by the local Friends of the Libraries chapters, the Margaret Murray Grant advances Mississippi public library literacy efforts through programming, collection development, and activities. The Friends of the Library group will use the $500 grant to enhance and expand the Winston County Library children’s book collection by purchasing new interactive books known as Wonderbooks.
Wonderbooks are printed books with a ready-to-play audiobook inside. Kids can press play to have their favorite book read to them while they follow along, developing their reading and comprehension skills alongside a parent, grandparent, sibling, or on their own. These books also feature “learning mode,” a fun and educational question and answer session about the book.
“Wonderbooks inspire kids to read and teach parents how to dialogue with their child about the book,” said Theresa Bridges, President of the Winston County Friends of the Library. “Research shows that hearing and seeing words at the same time can improve reading success. Statistics show that being read to 3 times a week increases test scores to the top 25%.”
To learn more about Wonderbooks or about becoming a member of the Winston County Friends of the Library organization, please visit or call (662-773-3212) the Winston County Library.
Pictured (l to r) Friends of the Library President, Theresa Bridges and Librarian Beth Edwards.
