My Little Book Bag initiative returns

The My Little Library Book Bag Initiative is returning this year, with local libraries across Westmeath hosting free book bags for children to pick up.

Over 110,000 free books will be available nationally as part of the My Little Library initiative, with versions in both English and Irish.

The initiative is aimed at children and their families who are making the transition from pre-school to primary school.

Each book bag includes books about starting school, going to the toilet, making friends, and more, along with a library card wallet and information for parents.

The bag also contains resources for parents and family members to help the whole family adjust to the changes which come with starting school.

The aim is that once people visit the library to pick up their book bag, the family will take the opportunity to join and that our new library members will come back regularly to keep their bag filled up with borrowed books and to take part in story-times, classes and all the other events that are on offer at the libraries.

Paula Leavy McCarthy, County Librarian, Westmeath Libraries, said, “The First Five Strategy wants to see children in literacy-rich households. The Little Library Book Bag is a fantastic way to start children building their own book collections and introducing them to the library and all the services it has to offer.”

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke said, “This is a lovely initiative for families in Westmeath.

"Starting school is a big step for any child, and these book bags are designed to help them feel more confident and ready for that change.

“Reading together is such a simple but powerful way for parents to support their child’s early learning, and for many children, this might be the start of a lifelong love of reading.”