Supporting Early Literacy: Shafter Library Expands Inclusive Reading Resources
Monday, December 15, 2025
In June 2025, reference librarian and Shafter Library liaison Ariel Dyer attended the American Library Association鈥檚 annual conference in Philadelphia. There, she met several unique book vendors: 隆Chau, Luna!, a Spanish children鈥檚 book vendor, and Dyslexic Books, a company that prints books for children in a dyslexic-friendly font.
In ordering titles from Dyslexic Books, Dyer prioritized books geared towards third-grade boys. Of those who are diagnosed with dyslexia, 60% are male, and an estimated 70-80% of those with limited reading proficiency have dyslexia. Dyslexia is commonly diagnosed in elementary school, and a lack of third-grade reading proficiency has a strong correlation to failing to graduate high school. The addition of these books is a small step to making the Shafter Library more welcoming and inclusive to readers with dyslexia.
Additionally, after adding picture and board books with Braille tape last spring, the library now proudly has available for checkout 10 fully Braille chapter books due to a patron request.
Visit the Shafter Library soon and explore all the possibilities we have to offer!
