Innovative programs to encourage younger residents to get into reading
Published on 19 May 2017
Mildura Rural City Council’s libraries will host two special events next week to encourage the region’s younger residents to embrace reading and books.
Local residents will be able to join thousands across the country in National Simultaneous Storytime sessions, as well as participate in a unique dance-based book program.
Organised by the Australian Library and Information Association, National Simultaneous Storytime sessions involve the selection of a picture book that has been written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, which is read simultaneously in libraries, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes and bookshops among a host of venues across the country.
These sessions aim to promote the value of reading, literacy and books, as well as Australian writers and publishers.
This year’s National Simultaneous Storytime book is The Cow Tripped Over the Moon by Tony Wilson, and will be read at the following times and dates at Mildura Rural City Council libraries next week:
- Wednesday, 24 May, 10.15am Mildura Library
- Wednesday 24 May, 10.15am Merbein Library
- Wednesday 24 May, 11am Irymple Library
- Thursday 25 May, 11am Mobile Library
- Friday 26 May, 10.15am A.S Kenyon Library at Red Cliffs
Children will also be able to experience the wonderful world of books through dance next week as part of the Dancing Story – Australian Ballet Storytimes at Mildura Library.
Dancing Story will provide a unique opportunity for children to explore the story of Sleeping Beauty through dance, led by a member of the Australian Ballet Education Team.
The workshops are designed for children aged three to five and are accessible for all children, regardless of learning styles or physical abilities. No previous dance experience is required. These 45-minute sessions will be held at the following times and dates:
Wednesday, 24 May Thursday, 25 May
Workshop 1 11.30am Workshop 4 10.15am
Workshop 2 1.15pm Workshop 5 11.15am
Workshop 3 2.15pm Workshop 6 1pm
Councillor for Arts and Culture Jason Modica encouraged Sunraysia residents to take advantage of next week’s activities.
“Both the National Simultaneous Storytime sessions and the Dancing Story – Australian Ballet Storytimes are a fantastic way for our younger residents to get into reading and improve their literacy,” Cr Modica said.
Bookings for the Dancing Story – Australian Ballet Storytimes are essential and can be made online at www.mildura.vic.gov.au/library or by contacting the Mildura Library on (03) 5018 8350. All programs are free-of-charge.
Media enquiries
Ben Piscioneri
p) (03) 5018 8689
e) ben.piscioneri@mildura.vic.gov.au