Libraries play a role in boosting literacy
Published on 04 March 2024
Shoalhaven Mayor Amanda Findley is encouraging local residents to explore the programs on offer at their local library after a recent report placed the spotlight on childhood literacy.
The Grattan Institute report found that one third of students are failing to learn to read proficiently because schools persist with the ‘whole language’ method of teaching kids to read instead of structure reading.
Regardless of which method is taught in schools, Cr Findley said reading to children from an early age was “vitally important” for improved literacy outcomes. It helps build reading and other cognitive skills and also stimulates their imaginations and helps build their understanding of the world.
“We have a range of activities in place at libraries across the Shoalhaven to get children through the door and to instill in them a love for books and a love for reading,” she said.
“We want to ensure our children get the head-start they deserve even before they reach school age.”
Shoalhaven City Council operates libraries in Nowra, Sanctuary Point, Milton and Ulladulla and also provides a mobile library service operating on a fortnightly schedule.
Regular programs include ‘Rhymetime’ for babies (0-2 years) to enjoy songs, rhymes and stories and ‘Preschool Storytime’ for children (2-5 years) to listen to stories, sing songs and participate in simple craft activities.
There are also programs in place for school-aged children as well school holiday activities and special events to recognise National Simultaneous Storytime and the Children’s Book Council of Australia Book Week.
“We want our children to feel comfortable about going to the library and we want them to have fun when they get there,” Cr Findley said.
“The earlier we get them through the door, the better.”
As part of Shoalhaven Libraries’ ‘Building Brighter Babies’ initiative, newborns can become a library member and receive a free library bag and a free book to keep.
As part of the Junior Readers Rewards Program, children receive a stamp on their rewards card every time they visit the library and receive a prize after they have accumulated 10 stamps.
“The library isn’t just somewhere you go to borrow a book,” Cr Findley said.
“Libraries have evolved into community hubs – places to have fun and to socialise, to learn and of course to read for the pure enjoyment that reading brings to people of all ages.”
“If you haven’t visited your local library recently, make the effort and you will be pleasantly surprised,” Cr Findley said.
More information about Shoalhaven Libraries is available online at www.shoalhavenlibraries.com.au
To view the Grattan report visit https://grattan.edu.au/report/reading-guarantee/