Are you making the most of your public library and teaching children how to use it? asks Lena Engel
Some children arrive at nursery with good experience of books, but those less fortunate will be unfamiliar with reading or the enjoyment it can offer. One of the ways early years staff can redress the balance is to encourage children and parents to frequent public libraries.
Nurseries, pre-school playgroups and reception classes that are located close to a public library should make arrangements to visit it once or twice a month at least. Childminders can visit too. Organising walks to the library may be a problem, but it can be solved with a rota of supportive parents. Settings in rural and suburban areas that are not within walking distance of a library should try to arrange for a library van or a children's librarian to visit the setting. Libraries are there to serve local schools and nurseries, so make your needs known.
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