THE SWAN Hill Regional Library is hoping to address a phenomenon known as the “summer slide”, which refers to the loss of literacy skills over the summer holidays.
The Big Summer Read is a statewide reading program, running until January 31, aimed at addressing the concerning situation.
Libraries manager Camille Cullinan said public libraries were in a unique and advantageous position to address the summer slide.
“Each year, we raise awareness of the benefits of reading over the summer holidays, giving local children access to resources proven to slow the slide,” she said.
“Our free program inspires imaginations and instils a love of libraries and reading for children and young people.”
Ms Cullinan said the Summer Reading Club was becoming more and more popular with children reaping the benefits of reading during the summer break.
“The program is supported by a number of local businesses who have provided sponsorship for prizes and incentives for local children,” she said.
“There are some great items available for children who read throughout the summer break with prizes such as a 64GB 10.9 inch Apple iPad, Apple AirPods, Lego packs, family three-in-one pass to Pioneer Settlement, gaming headphones and desktop, Toyworld, EB Games and Showbiz Cinema gift vouchers and lots more to win in our major prize draw in February.”
Ms Cullinan said the Big Summer Read was free to join, and the first 100 children to register at any of the Swan Hill Regional Library Service branches will receive a Big Summer Read pack.
This year, children have a chance to win even more prizes by downloading the Beanstack app from App Store or Google Play, or by logging into the Big Summer Read Beanstack website.
“There is no limit to the number of children who can join and all participants have a chance to enter the major prize draw to be held at 4pm on February 10,” Ms Cullinan said.
