1000 books before school

The West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation is participating in 1000 Books Before School, the first state-wide program in Victoria designed to work with families to promote early literacy skills and combat the scourge of adult illiteracy in our communities.

The West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation is implementing this early literacy initiative to engage parents in reading 1000 books with their children from birth until they begin school.

The campaign calls for families to provide positive and nurturing early learning experiences by sharing stories with their children every day.

“The more a child is read to in their preschool years, the better prepared they are when they start to learn how to read and write,” WGRLC chairperson Cr Mikaela Power said.

“We encourage all families to join the program at their local library and begin their reading journey with their children, and have lots of fun doing it.”

State Library chief executive officer Kate Torney said the ability to read is an essential life skill for everyone.

“A child’s development in the early years is so important,” she said.

Public Libraries Victoria Network vice-president Jenny Ruffy said public libraries play a vital role in supporting families with their children’s early literacy.

“Through this reading initiative, public libraries can empower parents to be effective first teachers, and prepare their children for school,” she said.

“We’re delighted that this program encourages parents across Victoria to read to their kids regularly, and help them to develop a love of language and reading.”

A child’s brain goes through an amazing period of development in the pre-school years.

Studies have shown that by age three, the brain has reached 80 per cent of the adult size. Early literacy forms the basis for future learning that can last a lifetime.

Through the 1000 Books Before School program, the West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation will support reader and literacy development by providing families with a framework and incentives to encourage a reading habit, and a love of stories in young children.

1000 Books Before School is designed to encourage reading and contribute to building confidence in children from birth to five years and their parents and caregivers.

The program will complement the Corporation’s existing early years reading and literacy programs such as Story Time and Baby Rhyme Time.

1000 Books Before School is a joint initiative of State Library Victoria and Public Libraries Victoria Network.

The West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation is one of 200 libraries across Victoria participating in this early literacy campaign.

Parents and caregivers who wish to participate in the program are welcome to register at their local library.