El Centro Public Library holds sign language story time

EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA) - The El Centro Public Library held a story time for children, led by American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter Nathan Enrique.

The presentation included story time, book giveaways, and a sign language lesson, with easy signs that children can learn.

Library staff says the event helps introduce the community to sign language and promotes inclusion. This is the second ASL story time the library has hosted.

"We're finding that the community...this is one of the needs of the community and we're always trying to help the community out and fulfill the needs that they have," El Centro Library Director Carla Mason said.

Enriquez said, "It's to bring awareness to deaf culture and American Sign Language."

In addition to the sign language event, the library has been hosting some other popular fun experiences for children.

One event brought animals in the library to give kids a chance to get up close and even pet some of them.

"So we have this new Zubargo company and people just went nuts over it. We had all kinds of animals that we haven't had before, like a beautiful hawk that spread its wings," Mason explained.

They will also host a Planetarium Day Wednesday. On Thursday, colorful lion dancers are set to perform.

The last week of the Summer Reading Program promises parties for both young and adult readers, complete with prizes.

"They're given different gifts, usually books and also gift cards, so they can go buy books places or Target," Mason said.