Council is launching a Community Reading Box Project, which involves the installation of easily accessible community reading boxes throughout Cumberland, designed and built by Granville Men’s Shed.
The project, which is an initiative of Council’s Paint Cumberland REaD program, supported by a Clubs Grant, will go live in March.
The aim is to encourage reading and improve literacy skills throughout the community, but particularly for young children.
Paint Cumberland REaD mascot Poppy the Possum will be encouraging people to ‘Take a Book, Leave a Book’ at easily accessible locations; in parks, outside childcare centres and around other community facilities.
“Poppy the Possum story-time activities are designed to help children learn in a creative and fun environment, setting a solid foundation for future education, learning and development,” Mayor Greg Cummings said.
“Early literacy programs can be particularly beneficial for those who haven’t yet started ‘big school’; helping prepare children for the world of reading and writing that awaits.
“Another delightful benefit of story-time is that it will spark their imagination, nurture their curiosity and perhaps open the door to a lifelong love of reading, writing and learning.”
The first of the community reading boxes will be installed in Merrylands and Auburn.
To launch the project, simultaneous children’s story-time events with Poppy the Possum will be held as follows:
Wildlife Area, Central Gardens
Merrylands Road and Cumberland Highway, Merrylands West
Monday 12 March
10am
Wildlife Area, Auburn Botanic Gardens
Chisholm and Chiswick Roads, Auburn
Monday 12 March
10am
Bookings are not required for these free events, open to all.
