The Atmore Public Library got an early Christmas present this year, as it recently received a federal grant to purchase new books, computer equipment and children’s games.

Thanks to the $6,115 grant, the library was able to buy two computers for the children’s department, Rosetta Stone language-learning software in both Spanish and English, handheld devices with educational games in English and Spanish, and children’s books in English and Spanish.

Library director Cathy McKinley said the library recently became aware of the need to develop a program for the Spanish-speaking population in the community, to help parents who are working with the HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters) program.

“This project will address the needs of those who would like to learn the Spanish language, and for those who would like to learn English,” McKinley said. “The entire community will benefit from these materials.”

The funding was awarded as a “Strengthening Communities” LSTA (Library Services Technology Act) grant, through the Alabama Public Library Service. Library Partners of Atmore provided the local match for the grant.

“This is just one of the many ways this support organization has helped the library,” said McKinley, of Library Partners of Atmore.

The library encourages all citizens to take advantage of these services. For more information, call the library at (251) 368-5234.