Simultaneous Storytime

part of Library and Information Week

May 9, 2008: Bega Valley Shire Libraries at Bega, Merimbula and Eden will take part in a special national event on Wednesday, May 21, at 11am.

The libraries will be part of National Simultaneous Storytime when libraries all over Australia will be reading "Arthur" by Amanda Graham at exactly the same time.

The simultaneous storytime is a project of the Australian Library and Information Association designed to promote the value of reading and literacy; promote the value of books; promote an Australian writer and publisher; and promote storytime activities in public libraries.

"The Bega library has been part of National Simultaneous Storytime for the past five years and this year Merimbula and Eden libraries are becoming involved as well," Children’s Librarian Anne Moore said.

"We will be holding a special storytime session when we will read books to children from 10.30am to 11,30am and at 11am we will read the book ‘Arthur’ by Amanda Graham which all libraries all over Australia will be reading at the exact time.

"National Simultaneous Storytime provides a great opportunity to involve parents, grandparents and others to participate in and enjoy the occasion.
"At the same time, it highlights the importance of reading and literacy for children and demonstrates how this can be a fun experience," Ms Moore said.

"Last year, approximately 70,000 children at more than 880 locations took part in the simultaneous reading of ‘The Magic Hat’ by Mem Fox and Illustrated by Tricia Tusa. More than 520 books and 800 activity packs were sold.

"The book chosen for this year is ‘Arthur’ by Amanda Graham and delightfully illustrated by Donna Gynell.

"It is a playful and fun story with lots of scope for activities, dress up and dramatization as well as reading."

Ms Moore said bookings for the special storytime were necessary, phone the Bega library on 6499 2127, Merimbula on 6499 2481 and Eden on 6499 2453 before Wednesday, May 21.