“The single most important activity for building the knowledge required for eventual success in reading is reading aloud to children.” (Becoming a Nation of Readers: The Report of the Commission on Reading)
The Brumback Library & all of the branches now feature a Read-Along collection in which audio + print are bound together and available for checkout for a multi-sensory reading experience! Our Read-Along collection features Playaway Wonderbooks.
What is a Wonderbook?
- Wonderbooks are read-along print books with a ready-to-play audiobook built inside. These books can be used with or without headphones and are available in picture book, easy reader, nonfiction, and chapter book formats.
- Research shows that hearing and seeing words at the same time can improve reading success rates. Wonderbooks give kids an edge with vocabulary development, phonics, and comprehension.
- Each Wonderbook also comes with a Learning Mode to switch on after reading along. Learning Mode features fun, narrator-led questions and answer session, open-ended educator-vetted questions about the story just read, and a powerful way to teach parents how to dialogue with their kids about books.
How does it work?
- Wonderbooks are currently available at all six of the Brumback locations.
- Browse and select the Wonderbook that interests you and place a hold through the catalog here.
- Pick up when notified.
- Wonderbooks come ready to play. Just turn on, press play, and follow along. You can also switch the mode from reading to learning mode to be asked literacy-based questions for comprehension and follow up for each book.
Who can get one?
- Patrons of any age may place a hold or checkout a Wonderbook.
- You must have a valid Brumback library card and be in good standing.
May I return the Wonderbooks in the bookdrop?
- No. Due to the fragile nature and cost of the devices, we feel it is best to return the Wonderbooks in person.
How long may I keep the Wonderbook?
The loan period is two weeks.
Devices may be renewed one time if there are no outstanding holds on the item.
Patrons will be limited to three Wonderbooks at a time per card.
Devices will start out fully charged. Return book(s) to the library to recharge if needed.
What if I break or lose the Wonderbook?
You are responsible for loss or damage to the Wonderbook.
Any damage/lost item(s) will be assessed a fee based on the cost to replace the damaged or lost item(s).
What kinds of Wonderbooks do you have?
We currently have just under 200 Read-Alongs in the collection, with more on the way! Check out the catalog and place a hold for you or your child.