Press Release
24th January 2013
Shetland Library celebrates ten years of providing rhyme and story sessions for the under fives
Shetland Library is celebrating ten years of providing rhyme and story sessions for the under fives throughout Shetland.
The scheme was first introduced in January 2003 under the name ‘Bookstart’ and was relaunched seven years later as ‘Bookbug’, now a firm favourite with the under fives.
The programme adheres to the principle that every child should have the opportunity to access and enjoy books from an early age. Sessions run monthly at the Old Library Centre and various locations across Shetland, and incorporate song, rhyme and live music.
Morag Nicolson, co-ordinator for Shetland Bookbug, says: “Parents, carers and grandparents all really enjoy coming along to borrow new picture books, join in the activities and meet up with friends. You can tell babies and young children enjoy taking part and are responsive to the songs and rhymes well before they are able to communicate.”
Councillor Steven Coutts, who regularly attends the sessions with his family, says he believes Bookbug provides: “an excellent opportunity to introduce peerie bairns to reading and rhyme in a fun, family environment.”
When asked what is so special about Bookbug, he says: “Both my bairns enjoy it and always look out for Bookbug when they go to the library. It’s great to see a love of books and libraries being promoted in this age of technology and screen-based entertainment. I sincerely hope that Bookbug continues for at least another ten years.”
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