Daring kids to dive into a library this summer

Fancy reading a book up a tree this summer? Or visiting the library in your togs? Auckland Libraries is challenging children to take an adventurous approach to reading this summer with its ‘Dare to Explore’ programme.

Each ‘Dare to Explore’ adventure has ten to twelve challenges that can be done at home, on holiday, in the library, at the beach or online. Challenges include visiting the library in togs or beach gear; reading a book outdoors; finding an international cookbook and making a recipe or designing a sports outfit for a book character.

Auckland Libraries’ Youth Service Development Team Leader Pip Henderson says the programme was developed by children’s librarians across Auckland.

“We know that children want more books and more time to explore when they are at the library. Dare to Explore gives them this, and the freedom to take the programme out around Auckland. There are no restrictions – we are excited to be able to offer all Auckland children the opportunity to take part in this fun, free reading programme,” she says.

Allison Dobbie, Auckland Council’s Manager of Libraries and Information, says the programme will increase children’s love of books, reading and the library, and help maintain and improve their literacy skills during the summer holidays.

“This is a very exciting programme for Auckland Libraries. Helping children’s literacy is a core purpose for us, and we know that summer reading programmes help improve our young Aucklander’s reading levels.

“We are looking forward to welcoming more Auckland children to the library over the summer than ever before,” says Ms Dobbie.

Registration opens on 12 December 2011 and children can join until 27 January 2012 when the programme ends. Register online at www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz or in participating libraries.