Libraries and leisure

Bookstart

Bookstart is a national scheme, which aims to introduce every child to books from the earliest age.

Bookstart is based on the principle that it is never too early to share books with babies and young children, and that children who have an early introduction to books benefit educationally, culturally, socially and emotionally.

Sharing books, and singing rhymes, with young children helps them develop their language and listening skills and their imagination too. It is also a fun and rewarding activity, both for babies and their parents and carers.

Research has shown that children who receive Bookstart packs are three times as likely to enjoy reading at school, and performed better in their keystage 1 SATs.

There are three Bookstart packs available, for babies aged 6-12 months, toddlers aged 18-30 months and for nursery children aged 3-4 years. Each pack contains two specially selected books, information and advice about sharing books with the specific age group, and an invitation for your child to join the library.

For more information about the three Bookstart packs and how to obtain one for your child please select the links below: