Victorian Minister for Local Government, Melissa Horne, has joined Public Libraries Victoria at Wheelers Hill Library to celebrate the launch of this year’s Warm Winter Read.
Now in its third year, the Warm Winter Read invites everyone aged 16 and over to pick up a book during winter – with almost 2,000 Victorians taking part in the challenge last year logging 18,000 days of reading.
Running until 31 August, the reading challenge invites participants to borrow books from their local library, track their reading days, and compete for book pack prizes.
“Last year, nearly 2,000 Victorians participated in the Warm Winter Read, and we hope even more will get on board this year by visiting their local library and curling up with some great books this winter,” said Minister Horne.
“We’re proud to back initiatives that encourage more Victorians to explore their public libraries’ catalogue of books, magazines and audiobooks – and best of all, it’s free.”
Victoria is home to more than 280 public libraries that offer community spaces and free resources, including digital materials that can be accessed online on demand.
“Warm Winter Reads is a Public Libraries Victoria initiative that encourages adults to read more. You can track your reading and even win some great prizes,” said Public Libraries Victoria President, Vanessa Schernickau.
“Whether you’re a keen reader or occasional reader, we’re encouraging you to pop into your local library and grab a pile of books to explore.”
The Victorian Government has invested more than $460 million over the last eight years into public libraries across the state through programs, including the Public Libraries Funding Program, Premiers’ Reading Challenge Book Fund, and the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program
For more information about Warm Winter Read visit vic.readbooks.com.au/wwr.