Parents can help set up their pre-schoolers for lifelong learning and success at their local library.
It will be all about fun, friendship and building literacy skills when Corangamite Moyne Library Service launches a refreshed library program in 2025, full of activities for little ones aged up to 6 years.
The children's program will continue across select branches and includes activities like storytelling, play, rhyming and connection for children and carers.
Libraries Coordinator, Kat Wilson, said the children's program will continue across select branches with aims to build connections and build literacy skills.
"The free program aims to foster connection for children and carers, and also build early literacy skills," Ms Wilson said.
"There are so many benefits to reading from a young age, such as increasing imagination and creative thinking, and developing social skills.
"These programs provide a fun and welcoming environment for all to connect and enjoy our libraries."
Moyne Shire Council Mayor Karen Foster is pleased to see the continuation of the popular programs.
"Libraries offer such a diverse range of activities for all ages and are such a valuable part of our community." Cr Foster said.
"In 2025 we're looking forward to further supporting our library programs with the continuation of popular sessions such as Story Time, Come and Play, Rhyme Time and Baby Time.
"With research showing that involvement with books from an early age is incredibly important for development and growth we are pleased to offer these sessions across our region."
Corangamite Shire Council Mayor Cr Kate Makin recommends everyone check out their local branch to see what services are available.
"There is so much more to our libraries than books, they offer many services for our community." Cr Makin said.
"They have digital resources like e-books, films and Ancestry family history as well as in-branch services like free Wi-Fi, computer access and plenty of free events.
"Become a library member today to take advantage of all they have to offer."
These programs will commence in late January 2025 and will run during school terms.
Baby Time is perfect for carers with babies up to 18 months old. It is a fun and relaxed introduction to singing and rhyming at Camperdown Library, 10.30 am on Wednesday's.
Rhyme Time is for little ones aged 0 – 4 years old. It provides an introduction to stories, songs and rhymes to help develop early literacy skills. Rhyme Time runs from 10.30 am, one day a week at five library branches: Port Fairy (Monday), Camperdown (Tuesday), Mortlake (Wednesday), Cobden (Friday) and Koroit (Friday)
Family Story Time is ideal for children aged 0 – 6 years old. It starts off with stories, song and rhyme but families are invited to stay after the session for play and to meet each other in a welcoming environment. Rhyme Time runs from 10.30 am one Saturday per month at three branches: Koroit (second Saturday), Port Fairy (fourth Saturday) and Timboon (first Saturday).
Come and Play is ideal for children aged 0 – 6 years old. Enjoy a half-hour playing with your little one and meeting other families. Come and Play runs from 10 – 11:30 am one Saturday per month at four branches: Cobden (fourth Saturday), Koroit (third Saturday), Port Fairy (first Saturday) and Timboon (runs every Saturday).
Full details on dates and times and can be found at https://www.cmlibraries.com.au/WhatsOn