Kildare families urged to avail of free 'My Little Library' book bags
Families in County Kildare have been urged by a Senator to avail of free 'My Little Library' book bags.
Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O’Loughlin is encouraging families across the county to take part in the initiative, which is now available in libraries nationwide for children preparing to start primary school this September.
Under the initiative, which began back in 2022, every child completing the Early Childhood Care and Education pre-school programme and starting school this year can visit their local library and collect a free book bag.
The bag, which is delivered available through local libraries, is filled with books and resources to support the transition to primary school.
According to Senator O’Loughlin, who has a background in teaching, the ‘My Little Library’ programme is ‘a simple but important way of supporting children as they prepare for a major milestone’.
She elaborated: “Starting primary school is a huge step for any child and this is a great initiative that helps make that transition a little easier for children and parents alike.
“The book bags include stories around starting school, making friends and dealing with big emotions.”
‘IMPORTANT ROLE OF LIBRARIES’
Senator O’Loughlin further said the initiative also highlights the ‘important role’ that local libraries continue to have across Kildare.
Explaining her view, the Newbridge-based rep said: “Our local libraries provide an incredible service for families and young people in Monaghan and this initiative is another example of that.”
“It is also a great opportunity for families who may not already be library members to get involved and see everything their local library has to offer,” she added.
Concluding her call, Senator O’Loughlin said: “I’d really encourage families with children starting school in September to drop into their local library and pick up a bag over the summer; it’s a great initiative and something that can really help children feel more settled and confident ahead of starting primary school.”
The My Little Library bags are available in both English and Irish and can be collected from local libraries throughout Kildare over the Summer months.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.