Department Of Education Urges Participation In National Libraries Day

The Department of Education is encouraging young people and parents to engage in National Libraries Day tomorrow.

Education Minister John O'Dowd has launched 'Education Works', a new campaign to encourage families to get involved in a child’s learning.

He said: "It is never too early for parents and families to get involved with their children's education and reading is an excellent way of doing this. Children of all ages should be encouraged to read as it has educational benefits later in life.

"I am committed to raising standards and closing the gap in educational attainment between children from the least and most deprived communities. Parents and other family members can help achieve this by doing simple things with their children that will help them do better at school."

Concluding, the Minister said: "Registering at a library is an easy process and borrowing books is absolutely free. Some local libraries also offer programmes tailored specifically to young children. Programmes such as 'Rhythm and Rhyme' and 'Bedtime Stories' introduce children to the wonders of rhymes, songs and stories and provide a great opportunity for children to have fun and learn in a relaxed atmosphere.

"As your child's first teacher, I encourage parents to visit their local library and make use of the services available to them. Playing a positive role in a child's education helps them increase their knowledge, skills and confidence and improves their life chances."

(IT/JP)