TALK: Text and Learn for Kindergarten

Text and Learn for Kindergarten (TALK) is an early learning text messaging service created by librarians for libraries. Based on the ALSC/PLA "Every Child Ready to Read" program, TALK is provided at no cost to caregivers of children ages 5 and under. Available in English and Spanish, it helps public libraries connect with underserved parents and caregivers, encourages caregiver-child interactions to support early learning, and suggests easy activities appropriate to a child's development level that help prepare them for school success. In addition, subscribing public libraries can also use TALK to promote their own programs for young children. The service comes with multiple toolkits for promotion, partnership building, getting started, and more, plus a web-based account portal and support provided by the Midwest Collaborative for Library Services (MCLS).