Literacy starts at birth, and the Baker County Public Library continues to add programs and resources that inspire kids of all ages to love books.

“I have more of a passion for literacy than anything else in my life,” said Missy Grammon, the new youth services specialist. “The only time I didn’t read was … when I had to sleep.”

Although she’s just weeks into her new job, Grammon is leading storytime twice a week, planning the summer reading program and helping children find the perfect books.

“I just want kids to read,” she said.

Grammon grew up in La Grande and has a degree in education. She taught third grade in Louisiana for one year before returning to Eastern Oregon.

“Get me out of the humidity and bugs,” she said.

Prior to the library job, she worked for New Directions Northwest.

Daily Vroom

A new resource Grammon is promoting is called Daily Vroom, which helps inspire parents in everyday “brain building activities” for children up to age 5.

The free app is available for iPhones and Android cellphones. It is not a game for the kids to play — the app gives parents a daily tip for interacting with their children.

For instance: “Choose a category, like animals. Going through the alphabet, help him think of two animals that start with ‘A.’ Next, think of two animals that start with ‘B.’ Keep going through the alphabet.”

Below the activity, the app explains the “brain building” part — “playing word games builds language skills and makes new connections between letters and sounds.”

The website www.joinvroom.org also provides science, facts, tools and activities.

Summer Reading

This year’s summer reading program begins June 15 with a visit from the Traveling Lantern Theatre Company, which will present “Vladimir Goes for Gold!”

The play is suitable for children of all ages, and admission is free. It will be presented at 10 a.m. at the Baker library, and 1 p.m. at the Richland library.

See more in the May 13, 2016, issue of the Baker City Herald.