Library News

National Simultaneous Storytime

On Wednesday 22nd May our K-2 students took part in the National Simultaneous Storytime.

It is an initiative held annually by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) to encourage more young Australians to read and enjoy books. Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country.

By facilitating National Simultaneous Storytime, the ALIA aim to:

·      promote the value of reading and literacy;

·      promote the value and fun of books;

·      promote an Australian writer and publisher;

·      promote storytime activities in public libraries and communities around the country;

·      provide opportunities to involve parents, grandparents, the media and others to participate in and enjoy the occasion.

This years book was “Alpacas with Maracas” by Matt Cosgrove.  Students engaged with the book in class as well as completing activities related to the story.

Paint the town REaD

Some Year 8 and 9 students have again volunteered to be part of the ‘Paint the town REaD’ initiative.  Paint the Town REad encourages the whole community to support the development of children’s early literacy skills from birth, so they will be ready for reading and writing at school.  You can find out more by going to http://www.paintthetownread.info/home/.

As part of St Philomena’s support of this fabulous initiative, a connection was formed last year with Goodstart Early Learning Moree, due in part, to its proximity to our school.  Every Monday in Term 2 and 3, selected students from Years 8 & 9 will have the opportunity to read to children at Goodstart. The aim is for the young children to develop skills such as attention, listening and book handling while also seeing the enjoyment reading brings to people of all ages.