AUBURN — Thanks to a generous anonymous donation, the Auburn Public Library Children’s Room now has three new iPads to lend to parents with children ages 2 through 5.

Beginning Wednesday, Jan. 18, parents may check out the Early Literacy iPad for one week to use at home with their child. Parents must have a library card and a library account in good standing in order to check out the iPad. Only Auburn Public library cardholders with children from ages 2-5 are eligible.

These iPads are preloaded with age-appropriate, teacher and librarian approved apps that support early literacy development, including ABC Pocket Phonics, Little Sky Writers, Memory Train, Pooh’s Birthday and the ever-popular Cat in the Hat.

The library also subscribes to Tumble books, an e-book service for children. Tumblebooks provides a collection of books that are suitable to download to the iPads. These books offer a solid selection with varying reading levels. While using the library iPads at home, parents may access the Tumblebooks service through the APL website.

Research supported by the National Association for the Education of Young Children suggests that when used appropriately, technology can enhance children’s cognitive and social abilities. Studies also suggest that appropriate use of technology can be one of many options in a well-balanced learning environment.

As a part of its mission to support local families with early literacy efforts, the library is happy to be able to offer parents this new service. For more information call the library at 333-6640, ext 3.