Like other libraries, EPL had significantly fewer dads than moms attending programs with their children. Research shows that children whose fathers who are actively involved have increased ability/interest in reading and are more attentive in the classroom. Our goal is to engage fathers in fun, hands-on child-centered interactions while promoting the Library as a comfortable and inviting space. To attract participants, EPL introduced Daddy Boot Camp – a program in collaboration with a radio celebrity dad, led by and for dads with young children

EPL leveraged morning hardrock radio DJ Yukon Jack’s local celebrity status to entice blue collar, male parents to visit the Library with their children. The collaboration with a local radio station also ensured that they promoted the program to their listeners. Daddy Boot Camp created an opportunity for dads who don’t usually attend the Library to participate in simple, fun activities and create memories with their children. Dads were able to learn with and from each other, with library staff and Yukon Jack modelling fun ways for dads to engage with their kids at home and at the Library.

Participation has been strong with an average of 30 attendees per session/week/location and 364 attendees over 12 programs in the series – with more than 50 percent of the attendees never attending a library program before. Collaborating with Yukon Jack created media opportunities to talk about the program and the importance of dads participating in the early development of their children. EPL implemented “Rockstar Karoke” as a special program during our spring break activities based on the popularity of this program. Most importantly Daddy Bootcamp gave dads the opportunity to learn and play with their children surrounded by other dads.