It’s Queensland’s landmark early literacy program and today, the Lockyer Valley community came together to celebrate First 5 Forever turning 10!
For a decade, the early literacy initiative, delivered by the State Library of Queensland in partnership with public libraries, has delivered our weekly story time, rhyme time, and baby play in half-hour-long library sessions designed to build literacy foundations in babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.
More than 200 children and their families were on hand to join in the celebrations, Council’s Libraries and Galleries Portfolio Councillor Julie Reck said.
“We’ve had a great morning, and it was so wonderful to see so many children and their families enjoy this special event.
“Our First 5 Forever story times help build strong foundations and are always well-attended at both our Gatton and Laidley Libraries.
“It provides important support to parents and caregivers and has changed how families across the region engage with language and literacy.
“Reading can bring such joy and building strong foundations that also include fun – like singing and playing, from an early age is what it’s all about.
“Everyone who attended enjoyed messy play, face painting, cake and coffee,” Cr Reck said.
Other regular outreach events have also been developed with the First 5 Forever funding have included Make a Library Bear, Teddy Bear Sleepover, National Simultaneous Story Time, Ballet in the Library, Talk Like a Pirate Day, Music on the Mat and Lego/DUPLO sessions.
For more information, visit www.library.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au or contact the Gatton Library on 5466 3434 or the Laidley Library on 5466 8867.
