Prime Time Family Reading Time is an innovative family reading program designed for low-income families in communities where student reading scores do not meet Nebraska state standards. The six-week program is hosted by local libraries and led by a storyteller and a discussion leader. Since 2005, when the Nebraska Library Commission funded student interns to work with Prime Time, bilingual student assistants have contributed to the programs while also learning about library work. Erika Hamilton, state coordinator of Prime Time, Nebraska Humanities Council Program Officer, will share her experiences in encouraging parents and children to read award-winning illustrated children’s books, to recognize and discuss humanities topics in the stories, and to become active public library users.

4. Since 2004, Nebraska has completed 62 Prime Time programs in 15 public libraries, 5 elementary schools and 2 community centers in 13 communities. Nebraska ranks 4 th nationally in the number of Prime Time programs completed.

11. Results: “After participating in Prime Time , do you read with your child more often?”

12. Results: “Has Prime Time changed the way you and your child read and discuss books?”

16. Results: “Has Prime Time changed your family’s attitude towards the library?”

25. What families say about Prime Time … “ I realize that the library is a place where we can find the best way to share our time and feelings as a family.” - South Sioux City “ I thought it was more difficult to go to the library and boring and already I have learned more about the services that they provide here.” - Lincoln

26. “ I’m at a loss for words. All I can say is thanks.” - Grand Island “ My child is more open to ask questions and see the story from different points of view. She imagines more than before.” - Gering

27. What site coordinators say about Prime Time … “ Many members in our audience have fairly few outlets for getting together with other adults. Between working several jobs or caring for children at home, they don’t have so much opportunity for social things. Also, the kind of conversation that Prime Time promotes is pretty unusual – I think the adults enjoyed that.” - Lincoln “ We finished our program last night. I am so happy with the way it went and can’t wait to participate again. It was wonderful!” - South Sioux City