This summer, Hornsby Shire Council is encouraging residents of all ages to continue reading through the holidays as it presents two free reading programs with enticing incentives for reading more books. Residents can register at any one of the Shire's library services – Hornsby, Berowra, Pennant Hills or Galston – for a chance to win exciting prizes.
Children's Summer Reading Club
The annual Children's Summer Reading Club, for children ages 12 and under, encourages children to read and explore the amazing world of books over the summer holidays. The theme for this year's program is The Big Summer Read, offering children the opportunity to engage in reading with the chance to win weekly prizes and $50 book vouchers at various stages of the program. Participants can join at their local library by collecting a logbook or they can join online to get started.
An exciting launch event will take place at Hornsby Central Library where participants are invited to "Drop In and Discover" construction skills and have fun with STEM in this interactive session. Taking place from 4.30pm on Wednesday 6 December, activities include craft kits, colouring in with Quiver and Sphero Minis. All attendees who register on the night will go into the draw to win a $50 book voucher.
Adult Summer Reads
Why should the kids have all the fun? The Summer Reads program for adults and teens over 12 gives participants a list of reading prompts to inspire them, with each book read becoming an entry to a draw to win one of ten $30 book vouchers. Participants can even tell library staff their reading preferences to receive their own tailor-made list of reading suggestions. They can collect a form from a Hornsby Shire Council library or complete it online to get started.
Hornsby Shire Mayor, The Hon Philip Ruddock AO, explained how the Hornsby Shire Library Service summer reading programs are an important element of its initiatives to support literacy and learning in Hornsby Shire.
"Reading is vital for people of all ages for numerous reasons. It helps us develop new skills, brings a sense of discovery, helps us relax, makes us more empathetic and supports all areas of life.
"Our summer reading programs encourage residents to take time out and grow their minds by connecting with literature. They are part of the services we offer at all stages of life including Storytime for pre-schoolers, resources for students, school holiday activities, book clubs and author talks for adults and the home library service for our older residents."
