Kids in the Sydney suburb of Blacktown will have the opportunity to begin a lifelong love of reading this Book Week thanks to a special partnership between Blacktown City Libraries and early learning centres.
Blacktown City Libraries is working with Kids’ Early Learning (KEL) services to encourage families to check out their local library by providing children with their first library card.
The colourful and specially-designed children’s library cards are part of the early literacy program at KEL centres and are aimed at fostering a lifelong love of books.
“Here in Blacktown City we are determined to provide children with the very best start in life and we know how important it is to encourage reading from a young age,” said Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM.
“The ‘My First Library Card’ program is not only a fun initiative to celebrate reading, it’s a tremendous way to build a trusting relationship between children and their local library early in life.”
Library membership includes a specially-designed KEL card, borrowing privileges for up to 35 items a week, use of computers for one hour per day, free wi-fi and access to a wide range of e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines and online resources.
While libraries remain closed across Blacktown City due to the COVID-19 lockdown, contactless reservations delivery and the Home Library Service have resumed.
Blacktown City Libraries’ Children’s Librarian, Lee Castledine said this year’s Book Week was a perfect time for families to connect with their local library.
“We are excited to be promoting the benefits of reading to families, and to be able to provide children from KEL with their own library card,” Ms Castledine said.
“With the library card they can access all that the library can offer including books, music, DVDs, online educational games and reading and children’s library programs.
“Children are able to have their own library card from birth, and it’s never too early for parents to introduce their children to the library.”
Parents and carers are encouraged to complete a membership form on behalf of their child and return it to their KEL centre director by the end of the month.
