Northern Beaches Library Service is helping children get ready for school with the launch of an exciting early literacy program, 1000 Books Before School.

The program and the official launch will take place at 11am, Wednesday 12 February at all of Council’s six library branches.

Mayor Michael Regan said the 1000 Books Before School program was designed to be fun and engaging.

“Apart from children benefiting from reading, they also benefit from quality time spent with parents and carers.

“The goal of reading 1000 books before primary school begins is very achievable. It might sound daunting but it’s very achievable as books read at home, preschool, at story time sessions at the library and other places all count. It adds up quickly.”

Parents can commence their child’s journey towards the goal of 1000 books before school begins by registering them at their local Northern Beaches library.

New participants will receive a record, which they can complete for the first 100 books they read. Once completed they will receive a 1000 Books Before School reusable book bag as a reward. For each 100 books read, a milestone patch is added to the bag until the goal of 1000 books has been achieved.

“Important early literacy skills are built book by book as parents and carers read regularly with their child. This will provide children with an excellent start to schooling,” Mayor Regan said.

Regular pre-school Story Time and Rhyme Time sessions are held at all library branches to assist parents to develop their child’s early literacy skills. Check the library website for session details.