Starting this fall, all PreK–3^rd grade teachers in New York State will be required to teach phonics as part of a structured literacy approach. As schools implement this shift, libraries are uniquely positioned to support families, caregivers, and educators with the right tools and resources.

In this engaging session, you’ll gain foundational knowledge about how children learn to read and how libraries can help bridge the gap between classroom instruction and community support. You'll learn how to curate and recommend high-quality decodable books and early reading resources that align with the Science of Reading.

What You’ll Learn:

• The Science of Reading and what it means for New York’s children
• Key differences between decodable books, leveled readers, and early literacy resources
• Best practices for selecting and curating decodable book collections
• How to build a literacy-rich library environment that empowers families and educators

Featured Presenter

Laura Lay, Comprehensive Literacy Grant Manager at the Colorado Department of Education and former Senior Literacy Consultant. Laura brings a unique blend of expertise in literacy frameworks, public librarianship, and statewide implementation. She recently authored the Trail to Summit phonics program and has helped libraries across the country strengthen their early literacy programming.

Why Attend?

With this statewide instructional shift, libraries will play a vital role in reinforcing structured literacy at home and in the community. This webinar will equip you with the tools and confidence to support early and struggling readers—and to become a key partner in New York’s literacy transformation.

Presented by

Teach My Kid to Read, a national nonprofit partnering with libraries to bridge the literacy gap through accessible, research-aligned resources and support creating equitable literacy solutions at the library.