“Sint Maarten Library Champions Literacy and Family Well-being during World Breastfeeding Week 2025”

As part of the week’s activities, the library hosted a Story Time session on Friday, August 8, at the White and Yellow Cross, and joined the Mom’s Health Fair on Saturday, August 9, at the Belair Community Center.

By engaging families through storytelling at the White and Yellow Cross, children enjoyed two captivating readings: Three Elephants, a traditional song illustrated by Andy San Diego, read by Reading Consultant M. Spencer for ages 0–4 during Rhyme Time; and Too Many Frogs by Sandy Asher, illustrated by Keith Graves, read by Youth Librarian M. Powell for ages 5–8. Eight children, aged 2–8, participated in this interactive literacy session.

In addition, the Sint Maarten Library advanced its literacy mission at the Mom’s Health Fair. During the Mom’s Health Fair, eight adults registered for the Library’s membership drive, receiving a free one-year membership. Additionally, 11 children aged one month to two years were registered and received Book Start Kits and book bags containing age-appropriate reading materials to inspire a lifelong love of reading.

These kits were generously sponsored by the National Library of the Netherlands (Royal Library – KB) and Biblionef Netherlands.
Strengthening Community Connections, the Library’s presence fostered connections with community vendors, parents, and organizers, highlighting its role as a hub for resources, education, and accessibility.

“Community knowledge and awareness are crucial for the developmental foundation of our children, and we were grateful to share important books and tips to support parents and professionals,” said M. Powell of the Sint Maarten Library.

“We were inspired to see so many dedicated professionals working together for families and mothers’ well-being. When we come together, we can better support every part of a child’s journey — and every parent’s too.”

A Shared Commitment to Families, this multidisciplinary initiative, launched in September 2024 during World Breastfeeding Week, brings together midwives, medical practitioners, early childhood educators, and literacy advocates to provide holistic family support.

The Sint Maarten Library’s involvement reinforces its commitment to community well-being, celebrating the vital link between reading, education, maternal health, child development and mom’s well-being.