Communities Minister visited Waterside Library
this week as part of Libraries NI's celebrations for World Book
Day.
Minister Lyons met pupils from Oakgrove Integrated Primary School
to hear how they are interpreting this year's Word Book Day theme
of “Read Your Way”.
Following his visit, the Minister said: “World Book Day
is one of the most exciting days in the school calendar and I
have enjoyed hearing about the pupils' favourite books and
characters. Developing a lifelong love of reading is
something I am keen to promote and “Read Your Way” encourages
children to read for fun and discover books they want to
read.
“The library network across Northern Ireland provides the
perfect place to indulge in reading, and they offer so much
more. I have visited a number of libraries as Communities
Minister and it is fantastic to see the range of services for
people of all ages, from book clubs and digital learning support
to the ever popular ‘Knit and Natter' and ‘Rhythm and Rhyme'
sessions.
“It is vital that we encourage a love of books and
reading at a young age. We want to encourage the literacy,
creativity and communication skills our children and young people
need to succeed, as well as ensuring that a love of reading stays
with them into adulthood. Libraries are the perfect place to
read, study and learn, providing access to books of all genres as
well as online and audio information.”
Minister Lyons added: “Our local libraries play a vital
role within communities, providing not only a safe place to read
and learn, but somewhere people can connect, study and access
technology. I was pleased to open two refurbished libraries in
the last year and I recognise the valuable role libraries have in
our local communities.”
Libraries NI Chief Executive Dr Jim O'Hagan said: “World Book Day
is a fantastic opportunity to remind everyone - especially
children - that reading comes in many forms, and every way of
engaging with books is important. Whether through print, eBooks,
or eAudiobooks, Libraries NI is committed to ensuring that all
children have access to stories that spark their imagination and
build a lifelong love of reading. Libraries offer a welcoming
space for discovery, learning and enjoyment, and we encourage
everyone to make the most of their local library - not just on
World Book Day, but all year round.”
