The Week of the Young Child celebrates children as a treasure with events around the county next week.

Events incorporate the theme "What a Treasure!" — this year's state literacy book— said the week's coordinator Julie Thumma of the Butler County Early Care and Education Council.

The book, which tells the story of a mole, promotes collaboration and sharing. Next week's events also promote collaboration and sharing among members of the county's early child education organizations.

This year, 36 organizations will be represented Tuesday at the week's flagship event at the Butler Public Library. Additional organizations have made donations to support the events.

The education council organized story times and activities at several locations. The week is aimed at families and children from birth through grade school.

Additionally, private child care providers have partnered with other organizations to help inform parents of resources available. These might include health services, funding for parents returning to work or places to turn for extra academic help.

Here are some locations where story time and activities are scheduled:

• Butler Public Library — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, children will receive a free book and have a chance to participate in a variety of activities from digging for buried treasure, story times at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., and a magic show at 7 p.m.

• North Trails Library — 2 to 3:30 p.m. Thursday

• Slippery Rock Community Library — 10 to 11 a.m. April 20

• Butler County Community College — 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to April 16 in the AK Steel Lobby will host a children's art show.

During the week, parents are asked to donate paper products like diapers, toilet paper and paper towels for the Butler County Paper Pantry at all events.