Little ones took part in celebrations at Pontypridd Library to mark the tenth anniversary of a scheme which encourages children and parents to share books.
Bookstart is a national campaign run in partnership by local health boards and library authorities. Through the scheme, every child in Rhondda Cynon Taf is entitled to receive a free Bookstart pack from their health visitor at their child’s nine-month health check, as well as a second Early Years pack at the 18-month health check.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Libraries has taken part in the Bookstart programme since 1999 when rugby player Dale McIntosh launched the campaign at Pontypridd Library.
Since then, more than 20,000 children born in RCT have received a Bookstart pack which contains information on reading to your baby, two free books and an invitation to join the library.
Bookstart’s tenth anniversary was celebrated with a story rhyme session at Pontypridd Library. Mayor Cllr Robert Smith and some of the original Bookstart babies who were at the launch in 1999 were invited to join in the fun.
“I was delighted to be able to join in the celebrations for this excellent scheme, which helps children learn to love books from an early age,” said Cllr Smith, who cut a special Bookstart birthday cake, along with special guest, the Bookstart bear, and local children.
For more information on Rhondda Cynon Taf Libraries Service log on to the library website at www.rhondda-cynon-taf.gov.uk/libraries. Membership of all Rhondda Cynon Taf’s libraries is free and everyone living or working within the County Borough is welcome to join.
