The Gustine Traveling Library, in partnership with Merced County First Five, announced a new milestone for its Babies to Bookworms program. Launched in 2021 with initial funding from Merced County First Five and the Merced County Office of Education, this initiative has already distributed over 1,000 Baby Book Bags to families with children ages 0-5 across Merced County. Now, the program is expanding to include diaper and formula support, providing additional assistance to families in need and extending its impact even further.

Designed to promote early literacy and strengthen family bonds, the Baby Book Bags include age-appropriate books and valuable resources to encourage learning from birth. With the addition of diapers and formula, the program is now addressing more basic needs, supporting families through the early stages of parenthood.

Zenedith Rosales, Tutoring Manager and Education Projects Lead at the Gustine Traveling Library, expressed her pride in the program’s growth and the community’s enthusiastic response. She shared a story about a memorable family who benefited from the program, highlighting the positive impact it’s making on local lives.

“We had a family come in recently with twins, and they were overwhelmed with gratitude when they received the Baby Book Bags, along with the diapers and formula,” Rosales shared. “The parents expressed how challenging it can be to provide for twins, and they were so thankful for the resources that could ease their journey. It’s moments like these that reinforce the importance of this program. Thanks to the support from Merced County First Five and the Merced County Office of Education, we’re not only encouraging literacy but also helping families meet essential needs. Education begins at home, and with these resources, we’re laying the foundation for lifelong learning and brighter futures for our children.”

For more information about the program, please contact the Gustine Traveling Library at (209)585-8233.