On March 21, the halls of the Lynnwood Event Center were abuzz with excitement and contemplation as Sno-Isle Libraries hosted its first annual Early Literacy Conference, opens a new window.
The conference, which brought together 250 early learning educators, guest speakers, and keynote speaker Laura Shea, M.Ed., CEO of Stories That Stick, is part of an ongoing commitment from the Library District to support a strong foundation of early literacy in Snohomish and Island counties.
“Public libraries have always been places for learning, and in recent years we’ve become even more intentional about our role in supporting early learning.” – Eric Howard, executive director of Sno-Isle Libraries
The day included a pop-up library, workshops, and interactive learning experiences designed for early childhood educators, parents/caregivers, community partners, and early learning leaders. Sessions focused on topics like celebrating belonging, language development, and building culturally responsive relationships. “We know the earliest years in a child’s life are when language, curiosity, and a love of learning begin to take shape. These early learning experiences matter enormously,” said Howard.
Sno-Isle Libraries provided the event at no cost to early learning educators and offered state approved learning credits. Registration filled within hours. The Library District is already planning to repeat this successful event in 2027.
Explore year-round library resources for students, parents/caregivers, educators, and homeschoolers — including book deliveries to childcare centers, classroom visits, curriculum support materials, and opportunities for educators to earn STARS credits all year long.
