Blue Mountains News

The Mayor will read Whitney and Britney Chicken Divas! at 11am on Wednesday 27 May, joining libraries, childcare centres, preschools and bookshops across Australia who will all be reading the same story together.

This year’s National Simultaneous Storytime event will also launch Blue Mountains Library’s new weekly online Storytime program. The new program is a web-based literacy initiative aimed at 3-5 year olds, giving local children access to our normal storytime program during the COVID-19 restrictions.

Storytime tutors who will read a few hand-picked stories, sing a couple of nursery rhymes and have a themed craft activity that is either downloadable or made from simple materials the children may have at home.

National Simultaneous Storytime is an annual initiative of Australian Library and Information Association, and is now in its 20^th year. Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator is read simultaneously, across the country.

Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill was thrilled to be involved: “I’m a dad and I know from personal experience the joy reading with your kids brings them, and me.

“When the Library team asked me to be involved I jumped at the chance and I’m really quite chuffed to be part of such a wonderful initiative.

“I’m sharing the experience with my daughter as well, so it’s extra special for me.

“Literacy is critically important for children, and I know many families in the community are missing their weekly storytime at the Library.

“Bringing storytime online is a truly wonderful idea, as now everyone will be able to join in from the comfort and safety of their homes.”

Be part of National Simultaneous Storytime with Mayor Greenhill at 11am Wednesday 27 May at Blue Mountains Library facebook page.

Tune into online storytime every Wednesday for the rest of Term 2 and keep an eye on the Library’s website for updates on Children’s activities online.