Born to Read

The Born to Read initiative was created in 2017, in partnership between the Guelph Public Library and The Foundation of Guelph General Hospital, opens a new window. Funded in part by the Friends of the Guelph Public Library, opens a new window, this initiative strives to introduce literacy to all infants born in Guelph. When infants are exposed to regular early literacy experiences they develop essential pre-reading skills which act as building blocks for when children learn to read.

How it works

If your baby is born at the Guelph General Hospital, you will receive a Born to Read literacy bag during your stay. If you didn't have your baby at the hospital, here's where you can get your bag:

Every bag includes:

Become a partner

Our Born to Read community partnerships play an integral role in the success of this initiative. Partnerships help support and expand the Born to Read program in several ways through financial contributions, material contributions, and distribution support. We welcome new partnerships from organizations that share similar values.

Please inquire for partnership opportunities.

Creativebug

Born to Read knitted hats

Stitch a little love for Guelph's newest residents by knitting and crocheting hats, mittens, and socks for Born to Read.

Start knitting today

Knitting Connections

Knitting Connections kit

This do-it-yourself kit allows you to knit or crochet a hat for a newborn child to help support the Library’s Born to Read program.

Knitting needles

Knitting needles

Borrow knitting needles and then take an knitting course using the online resource, CreativeBug! Each kit contains 2 US 9 (5.5 mm) needles.

Creativebug

Creativebug

Enjoy unlimited access to thousands of high-quality art and craft classes for all skill levels.

Volunteer opportunities

The Born to Read initiative could not thrive without the help of volunteers who assist with packing and delivering Born to Read literacy bags. Please note that volunteer opportunities are limited and successful applicants will only be contacted if there is an opening.

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