Porter Library now offering a special needs literacy kit

Westlake Porter Public Library is now offering its users a special needs literacy kit specifically designed for individuals with developmental or learning differences. The kit features the book "Jay and Ben" by Lulu Delacre. The book is unique because it comes with communication symbols that children with special needs will find familiar. According to WorldCat, a global catalog of library collections, WPPL is one of only two libraries in Ohio to offer the kit.

The author’s website describes the book as “an interactive book developed for use with children with developmental and learning differences and disabilities, including – but not limited to – autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, and language delays. The book is designed to help educators, parents, and caregivers teach children about language, reading, story comprehension, functional skills, and basic concepts. Children with learning differences and disabilities exhibit a broad range of behaviors and abilities, and they require individualized instruction. 'Jay and Ben' may be used in a variety of ways to promote each child’s educational progress and growth.”

The book is a first of its kind for Westlake Porter Public Library and, possibly, for Ohio public libraries. For more information, call the library at 440-871-2600 or visit www.westlakelibrary.org.