Kids can now get a jump on learning with Leap Pad learning systems from the Albert Lea Public Library.

Thanks to donations from the Albert Lea Noon Kiwanis Club and Albert Lea Does Drove 70, the children’s library was able to purchase 10 Leap Pads and 65 accompanying books with cartridges for library patrons to check out. The pads and books can be checked out for up to 21 days, said Staci Waltman, children’s librarian.

&uot;They’re local request only,&uot; she added. &uot;They won’t go out of the county.&uot;

The Leap Pad learning system introduces young readers to the magic of books and reading. Interactive talking books come to life with favorite stories and engaging activities. Leap Pad teaches reading, math, phonics, vocabulary, foreign languages, geography, science and music. There are also chapter books to read. Leap Pad books and cartridges are designed for preschoolers through fifth grade.

&uot;It’s a great tool,&uot; Waltman said. &uot;We have one in our own home, and it covers so many skills.&uot;

Waltman said the Leap Pads are good for traveling, and parents can purchase headphones to go with them. There is also a volume button, and the Leap Pad turns off by itself.

The librarian said she communicates with other librarians who had started to offer Leap Pads for patrons to check out, with good responses.

The pads and books were available to check out in early March, and the response was immediately good. &uot;We’ve had a wonderful response. There are lots of excited parents and kids,&uot; Waltman said.

Those who already have a Leap Pad at home can try different books they don’t own at home, Waltman said. &uot;This will be great for just trying them out or polishing up on a particular skill. It can be expensive to buy all the books and cartridges yourself,&uot; she added.

The book and cartridge selection keeps changing, so Waltman has hopes of the library purchasing more. Any individuals or groups who are interested in helping the library do so may contact her there.

&uot;We’re really excited about this,&uot; she said.