Reading programme promotes caring for the environment
Young patrons at libraries will now be able to join in on the fun of participating in the Eco-warrior Reading Programme currently presented at City libraries until the end of this month.
The programme features a wide range of activities for young ones all aimed at promoting an awareness on caring for the environment and includes reading content about environmental issues, doing crafts all centred on changing lives to adapting living in more eco-friendly ways and activities on innovative recycling methods.
A media release by the City, reveals the reading programme as a collaboration between the City’s libraries and Urban Waste Management Department, Nal’ibali and Read to Rise.
The programme is aimed at children between the ages of nine and 13 and has kicked-off at local libraries as well.
At the Strand Library, the Eco-warrior Reading Programme kicked off on Wednesday January 15 and young patrons can now sign up to participate in programme. The programme is already in progress at both the Gordon’s Bay and Somerset West libraries.
Strand library’s Children’s Librarian, Linda Bruwer says parents can now register their children at the library. “They complete their details in our folder and then the children receive an activity booklet (containing a reading list and activities to complete). As soon as the books are completed, the children can place it in the container for a lucky draw.”
The activity booklets can be competed at home or at the libraries. When visiting the library young participants can meet and greet the Mascots, LiBee, Bingo and Oaky, all on duty to support young warriors participating in the programme.
Interested persons can come and have a look at the short stories and books about the topic on display. Every young Eco-warrior will at the end of the programme receive a certificate of participation, says Ms Bruwer.
Mayoral committee member for community services and health, Patricia van der Ross, in the City’s statement lauded the programme for encouraging reading among children.
“The Eco-Warrior Reading Programme is a unique initiative that combines reading, environmental education and climate action. This programme will motivate young people to read and learn – reading also improves writing skills. We would like to encourage our young people to visit the nearest library and get involved, so that they can reap the benefits in the future,” said Ms Van der Ross.
Parents are encouraged to visit their libraries to find out more about the programme.
Ms Bruwer invited parents to sign up their children for participation in this environmentally centred creative programme. “The purpose of the reading programme is actually twofold – to create awareness on environmental issues and by doing this help to curb pollution in our environment, as well as encouraging a love for reading,” she said.
