1000 Books Before School
by Sam Schraag and Shana Makuta, Whakatipu and Upper Clutha Libraries
Since launching the self-guided, early literacy programme in November 2022, more than 325 babies have registered and eleven families have completed the 1000 books challenge, with many more getting closer every day.
The 1000 Books Before School programme aims to foster a love of books and learning in our tamariki, by encouraging early reading to babies and toddlers (newborn to five years). Reading aloud for just 10 minutes each day – approximately three picture books – provides tamariki with a significant increase in their readiness for school, exposure to diverse vocabulary, amazing opportunities for snuggles and bonding with caregivers, and sets the stage for an early and long-lasting literacy skills.
The Queenstown Lakes District library teams are ecstatic with the support they have received from the community, and local families are responding to the programme with enthusiasm.
Plunket helps to promote the 1000 Books Programme in our district through their Plunket Rooms and regular baby programmes. The Southland Literacy Association includes our flyers in their newborn packs distributed at the Queenstown Maternity suite as part of the Books for Babies scheme. We are also promoted by the Queenstown Lakes Baby Box Charitable Trust, which provides any newborn with baby supplies.
Community donations funded our professionally printed programme booklets, as well as our beautiful achievement stickers, certificates, and learning collateral for families. The 1000 Books Before School was launched with a celebration event at the Remarkables Farmer’s Market and in March, we organised a sign-up drive and celebration at the Wanaka A&P show, specifically targeting families in the Upper Clutha area. Both celebrations helped raise awareness about the program and sign lots of families up to the programme, supporting children’s learning across the district.
News of the programme’s success has traveled far and wide, with the Napier Library, Ashburton Library and the Rotary Club of Taieri keen to launch their own version of 1000 Books Before School for their communities!
Keen to get your baby or toddler involved? 1000 Books Before School is open to all members of the Queenstown Lakes District Libraries and is free! Ask at your local library branch or visit our library website at https://codc-qldc.govt.nz/kids-teens/kids/1-000-books-before-school for more information.
