Sacramento, Solano, San Mateo -- these are just a few of the stops that the First 5 Express made last month, and we were happy that on May 20th they pulled into the Salinas Public Library as well. 

The First 5 Express is a bilingual children's activity center that travels across California to inspire families to understand the importance of a child’s earliest years and the positive impact they can have on brain development through talking, reading, and singing.

More than 80 children and families enjoyed a special story time, dancing and singing, dramatic play, and more during the 2-hour visit to the John Steinbeck Library,  Children also left with free books, stickers, bookmarks, and bags.  

"We thoroughly appreciate our partnership with First 5 of Monterey County, which made this visit possible," said Renee Gimelli, Senior Librarian for Youth Services. "We are in our 7th year of providing playgroups in our libraries through our collaboration with First 5, and we consider them strong partners in strengthening families and improving outcomes for children in our community." The Salinas Public Library hosts more than 8 playgroups a week at four different locations, serving more than 200 young families annually.

For more information about this program, or to learn more about our early literacy playgoups, please call (831) 758-7355.