La Verne library hires KinderReady contractor, expands storytime lineup for 2025–26

The La Verne Public Library will restart regular storytimes on Sept. 15 and expand offerings for 2025–26, Library Director Donna said at the Sept. 8 La Verne Library Board meeting. The library plans three recurring programs: Homeschool Explorers for kindergarten through fourth-grade learners, Little Learners Storytime for preschoolers, and Books and Babies for children birth to 24 months. Donna said the library will contract with patron Ashley Gardner, owner of KinderReady LLC, to lead the Homeschool Explorers and Little Learners sessions on a part-time, 1099 basis and to offer a monthly parent coaching class. “She is the owner of KinderReady LLC, and she very kindly asked if there was something she could do to help,” Donna said. Donna characterized Gardner as a patron who "has her Tennessee teaching license for K–6 and English as a second language, a master of arts in teaching K–6, and 6 years' experience teaching kindergarten." The board was told Gardner also has “5 plus years of non profit children's programming” experience. Donna said Books and Babies will continue with Ms. Sherry Pendergrass leading the program, focused on early literacy through music and rhymes for caregivers and infants. The board was told staff members will assist Gardner during the homeschool and preschool sessions for craft and activity support. The board reviewed the program rationale the library cited in its materials: structured early-literacy instruction helps preschool-age language development and, the packet noted, a U.S. Census Bureau figure showing 58.73 percent of 3- and 4-year-olds in Rutherford County were not enrolled in preschool in 2021. Donna said the library’s storytimes “act as a buffer” to provide early learning opportunities where formal preschool enrollment is lower. Library staff member Katie told the board she is drafting a written agreement that will specify the contractor relationship and other operational details; Katie said the agreement should be completed and circulated to board members during the week following the meeting. No formal board vote on the contractor arrangement was taken at the Sept. 8 meeting. The board discussed logistics and staffing support, and members expressed general approval of the new lineup. Donna said staff and the community are “very excited” about the partnership.