Types of Library Materials for Pre-School Children

Abstract

New insights from research into early childhood development have led to the awareness of the importance of the early years in the development of the child. Consequently, educators including children's librarians are developing early child development programs for pre-school children. The paper examines a wide range of library materials that are available for the pre-school information user group. These include books, audio-visuals, toys and games. The role that each of these plays in the physical, social and intellectual development of the pre-school child is discussed. It suggests that imported library materials must be supplemented with locally published ones in order to build a balanced collection.