For many children, books are the key to a world full of imagination, wonder and knowledge.  And on Wednesday, Jan. 24, students of Family Centers’ Head Start Preschool had the chance to explore this world during Greenwich Library’s annual “Library Night”.   

Sponsored by the Friends of Greenwich Library, the event introduced Head Start preschoolers and their parents to the library.  Following a reading of Eric Carle’s classic, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” the children received a certificate of merit and their own library cards.  They then had the opportunity to tour the library’s Children’s Room and read from its extensive collection of children’s books.    

“Reading and literacy skills are a big part of our curriculum,” said Megan Sweeney, director of Family Centers’ Head Start Preschool.  “This event is a great way to get the children interested in reading at an early age, which is so important to their development.  We are so appreciative to the Friends of Greenwich Library for inviting our children to the library.” 

Operated by Family Centers, the Head Start Preschool offers education programs for three and four year-old children of families residing in Greenwich public and subsidized housing.  Head Start emphasizes parent involvement to encourage and support children’s educational and social development. 

Family Centers is a private, nonprofit organization offering education and human services to children, adults and families in Fairfield County. More than 1,000 professionals and trained volunteers work together to provide a wide range of responsive, innovative programs. A United Way partner agency, Family Centers is a member of the Connecticut Council of Family Service Agencies and the Alliance for Children and Families and is accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA) and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The agency is licensed by the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health.