Yarra Plenty Regional Library (YPRL) has launched free welcome packs and a prize competition to encourage young readers to join their local library.
Every child under 12 who signs up will receive a special library bag, activity pack and library card designed by local book authors and illustrators Emma Sjaan Beukers, Annabelle Hale, and Marc McBride.
YPRL chief executive Nicole Rudden said it is important that parents encourage their children to take out and learn how to manage their own membership.
“As parents, giving children their own library card is one of the simplest and most meaningful things we can do,” Ms Rudden said.
“It encourages a love of reading, builds confidence and responsibility, and gives them ownership of their reading and learning journey.”
Ms Rudden said children who regularly use libraries are twice as likely to be above-average readers.
“Study after study shows dramatically improved literacy and educational outcomes where children have free access to books they want to read,” she said.
“By making libraries a regular part of a child’s life you are giving them the best possible start.”
A child’s membership allows each child to borrow up to 30 books at once for free and there are no fines for late returns.
“It costs nothing to join, borrow from the collection, or attend any of the hundreds of children’s activities at the libraries each year.”
Details https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/
