HOOKED ON PHONICS HELPS JACKSON KIDS

JACKSON -- The Jackson Public Library received a grant from the YELL for Newspapers Committee at the end of December 1993, and library staff members say both children and adults who use the library benefited.

Using its $750 grant, the library purchased Hooked on Phonics and several high-interest, low-vocabulary books.

Hooked on Phonics is a cassette tape program used to teach children how to read using sounds. Many parents have reported positive results using the program, even if their children were reading far below their grade level.

High-interest, low-vocabulary books are for older children and adults who read below expected levels. Because those people wouldn't want to read about the Cat in the Hat or Dick, Jane and Spot, these books use easy words to give tips on how to find jobs and other subjects.

"It encourages them to read and, at the same time, gives them information," part-time librarian Rhonda Cole said. "Many schools with special classes use these kinds of books."

In 1994, the library applied for a grant to receive funds for a summer reading program for youth.

The Jackson Public Library continues to be a participant in the YELL for Newspapers campaign.