Adventure the key for young readers this summer

Published on 28 November 2014

Once again Mildura’s young readers have the chance to be part of a nation-wide reading club and join tens of thousands of members in the fun summer program.

The Summer Reading Club is being run at Mildura Rural City Council Library Service in partnership with state and public libraries across Australia and this year will explore adventure stories, with danger, arch-enemies and exciting journeys the name of the game.

Councillor for Arts and Culture Jill Joslyn says the program, which starts on 1 December and runs until 31 January 2015, is an example of a fantastic initiative aimed at enticing young people into libraries.

“Programs which encourage children to discover the joy of reading are some of the most vital in our communities,” she said.

“This free school holiday program has a range of activities designed especially for children from pre-school to 16 years of age.”

Nationally, more than 1000 public libraries across have registered to take part.

“I love the fact this program also offers our children the chance to interact with youngsters from other parts of Australia,” Cr Joslyn said. “It’s delivered on a national scale, so no matter where you live in Australia, clubbers have an opportunity to connect with children right across the country and share their love of reading.”

Last year almost 35,000 children, including more than 7,800 Victorians, took part in the Summer Reading Club, reading more than 234,000 books.

Cr Joslyn says it’s hoped this year’s Summer Reading Club, themed Adventure, will be even bigger.

Club members will be grouped in three ages – Pre-school (under 5); Primary (5 to 12-year-olds) and Secondary (12 to 16-year-olds).

“Children and young people will be able to come together on-line to explore tales from all over the world,” Cr Joslyn said. “A selection of stories from writers such as Michael Rosen (author of children’s classic We’re going on a bear hunt), Justin D’Arth, Andy Griffiths and Stephanie A. Bodeen will ensure that there is something for everyone.”

An interactive website with fun and engaging online activities such as chats, book raves, stories to complete, competitions, recommended reading lists and web links for children and families is available at www.summerreadingclub.org.au.

Cr Joslyn is also reminding children and parents a range of other holiday activities and programs are planned at the municipality’s libraries during the holidays.

For more information contact the Mildura Rural City Council Library Service on (03) 5018 8350, or go to www.mildura.vic.gov.au/library.