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Early years

Books help babies and toddlers improve their speaking and language skills, and also help them understand the world around them.  Children who have shared stories at an early age have a real advantage when they start school.

No one is ever too young for a book!  Sharing books with babies and toddlers is a great way to relax with your child.

We don't charge children under five for damaged books and no-one under 16 is charged fines for books returned late.
 
The Library Service has 3 outreach workers who run community library groups and also visit groups promoting library services, reading stories and giving Bounce and Rhyme sessions in HOP (Heart of Portsmouth) Surestart and Childrens Centres.

What to look for in the library

• Board Books for babies have a Teddy Bear logo on them.
• First facts for babies have an Owl logo.

There are also lots of picture books to share…

Special services for the early years

Family Library Link
The Family Library Link mobile library visits various under fives groups across the city, including nurseries, parent and toddler groups and baby clinics. For futher information, see their webpage under 'Internal links'.

Connors Toy Library
All libraries loan a selection of toys, free of charge.  These are supplied by Connors Toy Library. For further information, navigate to their webpage under 'External links'.

Bookstart
Bookstart is a national programme that encourages parents to share and enjoy books with their children, from as early an age as possible. A free pack of books is available from libraries for early years children. For further information, navigate to their webpage under 'External links'.

Bounce and Rhyme
These are free (and noisy!) sessions for babies and toddlers, parents and carers. Navigate to your local library webpage for details of when Bounce and Rhyme is held, or download the programme under 'Associated documents'.

Storytimes
Free storytimes for under 5s. Navigate to your local library webpage for details of when Storytimes are held, or download the programme under 'Associated documents'.

Sure Start
Sure Start is a government programme to deliver the best start in life for every child. It brings together early education, childcare, health and family support. For further information, navigate to their webpage under 'External links'.

Portsmouth CHAT
Portsmouth CHAT is a family information service offering a wide range of free information on childcare, activities and services for families and children ages 0-19 years. For further information, navigate to their webpage under 'External links'.

Associated documents:

• Children's Programme 2008  (0.07 MB)

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