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Library program connects reading with technology

Indianapolis Public Library (WISH TV)

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – A new national program is pushing kids to read more with technology. For years libraries have been building up their electronic collections and teachers have been implementing iPads and technology into their curriculum. This program will bridge the two, all in an effort to get kids access to more digital content and encourage more reading.

Indianapolis is one of over 30 major communities across the country to accept the ConnectED Library Challenge. In the city’s public library system if you have a library card you can access to thousands of materials right from an iPad.

The ConnectED program pushes schools to help kids get library cards. There are 27 schools in the city where every child has a library card and more superintendents are expected to sign on at other schools. According to Jackie Nytes, the CEO of the Indianapolis Public library, a major piece is that kids now have access to these materials during the summer as well.

“When there’s more conversation about having a library card, there is more likelihood the children will read when they’re not in school ,” said Nytes.

On a national level, the ConnectED Library Challenge will involve hundreds of millions of dollars from the private sector including major book publishers and their authors who have pledged to donate new titles to low-income students.

If you don’t have a library card you can head to any of the Indianapolis Public Library locations and sign up.