HARKER HEIGHTS — The Stewart C. Meyer Harker Heights Public Library turned up the volume Wednesday at its Early Child Literacy Workshop that featured a performance by award-winning children’s musician Joe McDermott.

McDermott performed several self-composed songs that communicate with children through engaging stories, including “I am Baby,” “What’s Not to Love About a Skunk?” and “Way Out West.”

Parents, children and local child care centers were invited to celebrate early literacy with free books, crafts and activities.

“With this event, we want to promote the ‘whole child,’” library Director Lisa Youngblood said.

“That means not only reading, but things to get children moving, playing and thinking. We want to get kids thinking about healthy bodies and minds.”

Parents and children were free to explore seven booths presenting local libraries, tools for child literacy and word-powered games.

“The kids are just so happy,” he said. “The Harker Heights crowd is great.”