There’s something magical happening at the Wilmington Public Library, and it’s not just between the pages of books. Last Thursday, excited second graders counted down to unveil a treasure trove of innovative reading resources that are about to transform how our community approaches literacy. If you weren’t there, you missed seeing Wilmington at its absolute best – a city that knows education is the foundation of everything good we’re building together.
The Next Chapter in Wilmington’s Success Story
Mayor John Carney (yes, our newly-sworn-in 58th Mayor who promised this would be “the last elected office” he seeks!) was front and center at the celebration, alongside his wife Tracey Quillen Carney. Having transitioned from the Governor’s mansion to City Hall this January, Mayor Carney brought his signature enthusiasm for education to the event.
He captivated the audience with a relatable story comparing reading to eating vegetables – something many parents struggle with daily. Rather than making literacy feel like a chore that kids reluctantly do (or avoid entirely), he emphasized how these innovative resources can transform reading into an exciting adventure that children actively seek out. His passion for creating an environment where kids are empowered and eager to read reflected the same educational priorities he championed in his inaugural address when he spoke about supporting city children through the Wilmington Learning Collaborative.
Why This Partnership is Pure Wilmington
What makes this initiative so quintessentially Wilmington is how it brings together diverse partners to create something extraordinary. The American Library Association and Mrs. Wordsmith (a creative literacy company) have joined forces with Delaware libraries and the Delaware Literacy Alliance—a statewide coalition working to spearhead a transformative literacy movement—to launch a partnership that’s sending workbooks, flashcards, video games, and card games to libraries throughout the state.
Dr. Annie Norman, Delaware Division of Libraries Director, perfectly captured the spirit: “Librarians and literacy professionals throughout the state have joined forces to address literacy across the life span. The goal is to raise super-readers and improve opportunities in pursuit of everyone’s Delaware dream.”
That’s classic Wilmington – we don’t just solve problems; we create possibilities that elevate everyone. #ItsTime for Wilmington to show everyone what we’ve always known: our city thrives when we come together around big ideas!
Gaming, Learning, and Growing – The Fun Way
Brandon Cardet-Hernandez, President of Mrs. Wordsmith, brought a refreshing perspective to literacy education that fits perfectly with Wilmington’s innovative vibe.
“We build video games, card games, workbooks and all this really cool stuff that help teach two skills that I think are really important: vocabulary and phonics,” he explained. “We co-design all of our products with young people—they’re part of the design work.”
This approach mirrors what makes Wilmington special – we’re a city that values creativity, collaboration, and bringing fresh ideas to traditional challenges. Just as our renovated Queen Theater transformed the arts scene and our revitalized Riverfront created new recreational spaces, this initiative is reimagining how we approach literacy.
More Than Just Books – Building Community
If you’ve spent any time in Wilmington, you know our library is more than just a place to check out books. It’s a community hub where ideas are exchanged, connections are made, and futures are shaped. This new partnership strengthens that role even further, creating yet another reason to love our vibrant city.
The initiative is part of WRITING CHANGE, a program supported by the Estée Lauder Companies Foundation and inspired by youth poet laureate Amanda Gorman. It’s bringing resources not only to libraries across Delaware but also to five Youth Correctional Facilities, ensuring that literacy opportunities reach everyone in our community.
The United Way of Delaware has also joined this literacy alliance, demonstrating another Wilmington strength – our ability to bring together businesses, government, nonprofits, and citizens for common causes.
#WhyWeLoveWilm (Beyond Just This Initiative!)
Whether you’re a long-time resident or considering making Wilmington your home, this city has so much to offer:
- We’re forward-thinking: From our rapidly evolving downtown with hot spots like La Fia and Bardea to the innovative businesses choosing to make Wilmington home, we embrace new ideas while honoring our rich history. Just check out how the Delaware Contemporary and Delaware Art Museum are reimagining creative spaces!
- We’re inclusive: From Riverside to Southbridge, from the Triangle to the East Side, Wilmington is a tapestry of diverse neighborhoods each with their own character. As Mayor Carney said during his inauguration: “Neighborhoods full of character and community. A city small enough to walk to work, but big enough to support a vibrant arts and entertainment scene.”
- We’re community-focused: Whether it’s cheering on the Blue Coats at the Chase Fieldhouse, enjoying a concert at The Queen, or participating in community cleanups, Wilmingtonians show up for each other. The Delaware Center for Horticulture and Urban Bike Project are just two examples of organizations bringing people together for the common good.
- We’re fun: With HiLo Fitness offering unique workouts, Pure Yoga providing zen moments, and Green Box Kitchen serving up healthy fuel, Wilmington delivers quality experiences for every lifestyle. And don’t get us started on our amazing parks system – from Rockford Park to Brandywine Park, outdoor adventures await!
- We’re committed to growth: The seven years of conservation projects through the Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund are transforming our natural spaces, while developments at Riverside’s Imani Village and Southbridge are creating new housing opportunities for all.
Experience the Wilmington Renaissance
Ready to see what all the excitement is about? Stop by the Wilmington Public Library to explore these innovative new literacy resources. And while you’re at it, make a day of it! Grab coffee at Brew HaHa, lunch at Stitch House Brewery, and take a stroll along the Christina Riverwalk to experience the Wilmington that locals have always loved.
Whether you’re a parent looking to boost your child’s reading skills, a teacher seeking new classroom tools, or simply someone who appreciates our city’s commitment to excellence, there’s something here for you. #ItsTime to discover (or rediscover) all that Wilmington has to offer!
And if you’re still considering whether Wilmington is the right place to live, work, or play, let this literacy initiative be one more reason to say yes. We’re a city that values education, embraces innovation, and works together to create opportunities for everyone.
In Wilmington, we’re not just raising readers – we’re raising the bar on what a city can accomplish when community becomes the priority.
Ready to dive deeper into Wilmington? Hit up WilmToday.com now and follow our #ItsTime campaign to discover what’s happening right now! Check out this week’s GOAT (Get Out Around Town) picks and experience the best of Wilmington yourself. Let’s go!
This blog post is part of our ongoing series showcasing the people, places, and initiatives that make Wilmington an exceptional place to live, learn, and thrive. Have a Wilmington success story you’d like us to feature? Drop us a line at info@wilmtoday.com.
Wilmington Public Library – Visit their official website for hours, events, and resources
Delaware Literacy Alliance – Learn more about statewide literacy initiatives
Wilmington Learning Collaborative – Discover how this partnership is transforming city schools
Mrs. Wordsmith – Explore the innovative literacy resources available at the library
United Way of Delaware – Find out how they’re supporting literacy programs
WRITING CHANGE Initiative – Learn about Amanda Gorman’s literacy project
Delaware Division of Libraries – Explore statewide library programs and services
Mayor Carney’s Action Plan – Learn about the Mayor’s priorities for Wilmington
Wilmington Small Business Resources – Related article for Wilmington’s entrepreneurs
