Newly elected Cathaoirleach of Westmeath Council Council, Cllr Frankie Keena, joined staff in Athlone library in recent times to officially launch the Summer Stars Reading Adventure in Westmeath.
In one of his first engagements as Cathaoirleach, Cllr Keena stated his commitment to supporting programmes like Summer Stars which encourages children to read throughout the summer and to use the library service.
"In these difficult times, the library remains a free resource with free membership and no fines. It has continued to support the community through its online presence whether through activities, ebooks and eaudiobooks. I want to express my gratitude to the library staff for their ongoing work in promoting good reading habits," Cllr Keena stated.
The Summer Stars Reading Adventure is part of the national 'Right to Read' literacy initiative that encourages children to enjoy the fun and pleasure of reading and to participate in activities with their library.
Children are welcome to sign up in Athlone or Moate libraries, complete their reading log and receive a reading reward. In addition, the programme is accompanied by a range of online activities including storytimes, craft sessions, scavenger hunts and more.
Follow https://www.facebook.com/WestmeathLibraries for up to date details of events and activities.
In addition, Libraries Ireland are inviting children to stretch their imagination and write a short story as part of Summer Stars.
The story must begin with the line - 'Of all the places in the world, I never thought I would be here'.
The competition is open to 6-18 year olds with three age categories - 6-9, 10-14 and 15-18. So start writing and submit entries at https://www.librariesireland.ie/services/right-to-read/summer-stars/of-all-the-places-in-the-world-i-never-thought-i-would-be-here.
Both Athlone and Moate libraries are open for browsing and borrowing so pop in for a visit, stock up on some reading and sign up for Summer Stars. Remember, once registered for Summer Stars, participants can also borrow ebooks for free using the Borrowbox app.
