Summer is here and school’s out; so why not enrol your child in the Summer Reading scheme at Westport Library? It’s fun and it’s free; thanks to Mayo Library Service. To take part each child commits to reading six books over the summer months of July and August and if they complete the challenge they become a Summer Star with a certificate and a medal to prove it.
When they sign up children are given a free bag for their books, a pencil, a report card and six review sheets to record their thoughts on each book. They receive a special stamp on their report card for every book they read and review. Upon completion of the challenge each of them will then receive a medal and a certificate from a VIP guest at a special ceremony in September.
There is a dedicated website at www.librariesireland.ie which has lots of activities, games, talking e-books, stories, reading tips and book suggestions for all ages. There are also some funny interviews with children’s authors and celebrities.
According to librarian Keith Martin from Westport Library, “reading has many long term benefits for children and helps develop creativity and imagination, increases concentration and attention, improves their communications skills and reading is fun, relaxing and calming. It is also ideal for rainy summer days. Reading will also give your child greater self-esteem and allow them to entertain themselves.”
Mr Martin adds: “By focusing on stories that are fun and by ensuring the story is not too easy but not too hard, you can really help encourage your child’s reading. Comic books, graphic novels, or books about sports or hobbies can be a great way of introducing a reluctant reader into reading more. Finally lots of praise and encouragement and frequent visits to Westport Library can really make things easier and fun for your young readers.”
In addition to the Summer Star reading challenge Westport library offers books, DVDs and CDs for younger readers. For more information on the Summer Star challenge, or on the library, just pop into Westport Library or call (098 ) 25747. Membership is now free and borrowers can borrow up to eight books.
