Award for literacy programs

Casey Cardinia Libraries staff host story time on the mobile library bus. Picture: CONTRIBUTED

Casey Cardinia Libraries has been awarded a best practice award for their delivery of early years literacy programs.
The judgement for the READ Accreditation encompasses all libraries in the state and CCL CEO Chris Buckingham said they took early years education very seriously.
“Encouraging early literacy and lifelong learning are top priorities for us; reading is so important for everyone’s health and wellbeing,” he said.
“We provide stimulating programs and events, lend books and create spaces where people can enjoy reading for free.”
CCL has specifically focused on delivering free and regular reading activities, and over the last financial year attracted more than 5129 children and their carers to Baby Rhyme Time.
Tinies’ Time, a rhyme and book sharing session for toddlers up to three years old, welcomed 18,069 children and their carers and pre-school Storytime at the library which hosted 12, 859 children and their carers.
“We love seeing parents and children together in the library … they bring energy and vitality. We want people to enjoy a fun, accessible and welcoming experience,” Mr Buckingham said.