PIERRE, SD – Toddler Time at Rawlins Municipal Library takes place every Monday and Wednesday from 10–11 a.m., offering a structured and engaging program for toddlers and their caregivers. 

The first half hour focuses on early literacy through storytime, with songs woven between readings to keep children engaged. The second half emphasizes social interaction, featuring games and activities designed to help toddlers develop important social skills. 

On Monday, March 16, the program welcomed seven adults and nine toddlers. Youth Services Coordinator JoAnn Fischer led a St. Patrick’s Day–themed storytime, reading festive books and allowing the children to choose songs to sing between stories. 

An outreach version of Toddler Time was held the following day, Tuesday, March 17, at Head Start. This program brings the library experience directly into classrooms, with Fischer visiting each room to read to the children. The session was especially memorable as it coincided with St. Patrick’s Day and included a special visit from Mayor Steve Harding, who joined in to read to students in several classrooms. 

“When I was reading to the children at Head Start, their eyes were wide, and they were so excited to listen to the story,” said Mayor Steve Harding. “It gives me great pride and joy to spend time reading with the youth in our community and to see that excitement for books at such a young age.” 

Toddler Time will continue next week with a spring-themed program. 

“Toddler Time is one of the best programs the library offers because we are investing in the children of our community,” said Library Director Abby Edwardson. “These little kids will one day be future readers and leaders.” 

To learn more about Toddler Time and other upcoming library programs, visit rawlinslibrary.org.