Washoe County libraries will offer special story times designed to help parents and pre-kindergarten children learn about Virtual Pre-K — a fun, educational and free resource. There’s also a parent/child activity for all to enjoy.

Virtual Pre-K is a set of interactive learning tools that helps pre-kindergarten children learn important lessons and promotes the home/school/community connection. It uses videotapes, CD-ROMs, the Internet and printed materials to help parents take part in their child’s education. The kits are available in English and Spanish and may be checked out at Washoe County libraries. In addition, there will be a brief introduction to Born Learning — a way for parents, grandparents and caregivers to explore ways to turn everyday moments into fun learning opportunities.

Although the programs are targeted to pre-school-age children, all ages are welcome. The story times are presented by Americorps Summer Associates of Americorps VISTA and made possible by Washoe County School District Child and Family Services and the United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra.

The story time will be today at 10:30 a.m. at the Spanish Springs Library, 7100A Pyramid Way in Sparks. For more information, call 424-1800. To see all the times and locations of Virtual Pre-K, visit the Washoe County library website at www.washoecounty.us/library.