Longford children set to embrace joy of reading as Summer Stars series returns

Longford Libraries are once again inviting children of all ages to dive into the joy of reading with the Summer Stars Reading Programme this summer.

Summer Stars is a free national programme that encourages children to read for fun during the school holidays.

Whether it’s picture books, graphic novels, or audiobooks, every child can take part and enjoy reading at their own pace.

Children can track their reading and take part in fun library events and activities hosted by their local libraries.

Longford County Council and Longford Libraries run six libraries in the county, including Ballymahon, Drumlish, Edgeworthstown, Granard, Lanesboro and Longford Town.

Children can set their own reading goals and they will receive a special activity book, a seeded bookmark, and Summer Stars stickers.

All children registering for Summer Stars in Longford will be entered in a draw for monthly prizes. Prizes available in June, family tickets to Lough Ree Access for All Boat Trip, in July, family tickets to the cinema and in August, family tickets to the bowling alley. At the end of the summer all completed cards will be entered into a draw for a chance to win a bike or a tablet.

A special Summer Stars collection is available on BorrowBox, the free library app offering eBooks and audiobooks to all library members.

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As part of the initiative, Longford Libraries will host a wide range of free events and activities, including story times, workshops, puppet shows, music workshops and more. Families are encouraged to follow social media to stay up to date with what’s happening in their local library.

Keep an eye out for details of the Explore Longford Young Photographer's Competition which is being run in conjunction with Longford Tourism.

Head of Libraries Development for the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), Stuart Hamilton said: “The summer period provides an excellent opportunity for children to embrace the joy of reading and the fantastic child-focused services available within our libraries. This includes story times, author readings, games, concerts, arts and crafts and much more.

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“The Summer Stars programme allows children – and their parents - to delve into a world of creativity, imagination, discovery, adventure and fun learning. It brings fun into their lives over the summer months and fosters creative learning over the holiday period. By supporting children to embrace the joy of reading, libraries are supporting them to develop skills for life - literacy skills, imagination and creativity, and to develop a lifelong love of reading.”

Membership of all public libraries is free for everyone of all ages. People can join online or in person. Visit librairiesireland.ie to find out more.

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