Cleveland Public Library Launches Virtual Storytime for Families for Children during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Children in the greater Cleveland area can now enjoy storytime in the comfort of their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Tuesday, March 31, Cleveland Public Library is kicking off Virtual Storytime on its digital platforms which includes cpl.org, Facebook, and YouTube. Library staff, elected officials, journalists, and other celebrities will read an assortment of children’s books selected by the Library’s Youth Services Department. The recommended reading list includes titles from Cleveland’s own Bill Cotter, who wrote Don’t Push the Button, Mo Willems, author of The Thank You Book! and Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!, and Imagination Library, which strives to improve early childhood literacy across the state by providing free books to children.

“It’s important for children to have an outlet during the pandemic. Despite our closure, Cleveland Public Library can still be a safe space for children to learn and enhance their literacy skills,” said Annisha Jeffries, Youth Services Manager at Cleveland Public Library. “We encourage all families to watch our Virtual Storytime and utilize our database of fun and educational resources for students.”

No Wi-Fi, no problem! Cleveland Public Library is making sure everyone has access to the internet during our closure. Our Wi-Fi signal is available for use outside Main Library and from the parking lots of our 27 neighborhood branches.

“Cleveland Public Library is committed to helping bridge the digital divide,” said Felton Thomas, Jr., Executive Director and CEO of Cleveland Public Library. “Our goal is to keep our Wi-Fi signal strong so that people can continue to conduct business and stay connected with their loved ones during this difficult time.”

We are also partnering with three local organizations to offer digital services throughout the city.

Ashbury Senior Computer Community Center has set up an emergency “digital inclusion hotline” to help unconnected neighbors access free and low-cost internet service. The hotline number is (216) 202-4292.

PCs for People is providing low-cost computers to low income people in need.

National Digital Inclusion Alliance is offering information on free and low-cost internet plans with major internet service providers and how to apply for them.