Corangamite Moyne Library Service is participating in the BIG Summer Read (BSR) challenge, with great prizes up for grabs.
The BSR is an annual challenge run by Public Libraries Victoria that encourages young readers to read as many books as they can between 1 December and 31 January.
Libraries Coordinator, Kat Wilson, said that the challenge is a wonderful opportunity to engage kids and teens in reading as well as the library services.
"The aim of the Big Summer Read is to encourage kids and teens to keep reading all summer long," said Ms Wilson.
"You can sign up now online or visit your local branch to register.
"We welcome all challenge participants to stop by their local library and discover all the books and other services we offer.
"Our branches will have an ice-cream themed treasure hunt, challenging kids to find clues in the library to go in the draw for great prizes."
Each Branch will have a set of prizes up for grabs for the BSR, including vouchers to Timboon Fine Ice Cream, book vouchers to Collins Warrnambool, and an Ash Barty book set.
Corangamite Shire Mayor Kate Makin encourages parents to get their kids involved in the challenge, and to check out the online library resources.
"Reading isn't just a solo activity, it can be a great bonding experience," said Cr Makin.
"Sign your kids up for the challenge and read along with them. Give them your favourite childhood book or discover some new stories together.
"Our Library branches are closed for a few days over the festive period, but you can still access fantastic and free resources online like Story Box, audiobooks and eBooks."
Moyne Shire Mayor Karen Foster said libraries can have a vital role in early childhood development.
"Programs such as the BSR can help to create a lifelong love of reading and learning, with our library services uniquely positioned to engage children in this fun and dynamic activity," said Cr Foster.
The Corangamite library branches will close from 12 pm on Friday 20 December 2024 and will start reopening from Thursday 2 January. Camperdown Library will be open for a short period on Tuesday 24 December, from 9 am to 12 pm.
The Moyne library branches, except for Port Fairy, will close from Tuesday 24 December, returning to usual hours from Friday 3 January. Port Fairy Library will be open with special hours over this period.
The BIG Summer Read encourages children to read for pleasure and addresses the issue of the "summer slide".
This refers to the loss of literacy experienced over the long summer break if children are not exposed to books or reading.
Library members participating in the BSR must be under the age of 18, reside in Victoria and must be able to collect their prize from a Corangamite Moyne Library Service branch.
Now in its fourth year, the BSR has grown to include all public library services in Victoria as well as public libraries in New South Wales, Tasmania and Queensland. Last year in 2023, more than 16,000 young readers participated in the challenge and over 220,000 books were read!
Learn more and sign up here: https://www.cmlibraries.com.au/WhatsOn/BigSummer24-25
Full details about branch opening hours over the holiday period are available here: https://www.cmlibraries.com.au/Branches
