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Family Library Link

How it began

The Family Library Link project began in 1998 with the aim of breaking the low literacy cycle that appeared to exist in some households between parent and child. By raising parents' confidence and awareness of the importance of introducing children to books early on, it was hoped that their pre-reading skills would improve. Our objective was to provide a custom-built mobile library, especially designed for the under fives, stocked with age appropriate books to stimulate children and their carers, and to visit nurseries and preschools in low-income areas of Portsmouth.

The project was funded by the Single Regeneration Budget (SRB) until April 2004. At this point the funding changed. It is now part funded by Surestart and part by the Library Service. As the funding has changed, Family Library Link's objectives have broadened. The library van now goes to Surestart areas 50% of the time (Somerstown, Buckland, Landport and Portsea), but the other 50% of the time it visits any areas within the city boundaries.

Where it goes

The Family Library Link mobile library visits various under fives groups across the city, including nurseries, parent and toddler groups and baby clinics. In addition, the library van parks in Sainsbury's car park. The times are as follows:

Sainsbury's (Farlington): every Thursday between 9.30am and 12pm

How it works

Groups and families borrow books and other library materials. Staff offer storytimes for the children, promote library events and activities, and answer any enquiries. The aim is to encourage parents to share books with their babies and young children to aid their early language and literacy development.

There is a wide selection of books available on the van, from board books to stories, information books to songs and nursery rhymes as well as dual language books and a Parent's Collection.

It is possible to join Portsmouth Library Service on the mobile, getting a library card which encompasses all static branches as well as the library van. Books can be returned to any Portsmouth library or Family Library Link visit.

The schedule

Family Library Link works to a 4 weekly timetable during term time. This is amended every year. During the school holidays and especially in the summer months, the library van attends any special events that are arranged for children in the city. To see the current 2008/09 timetable click on the Family Library Link Timetable link below.

Why books and Library membership are important for under fives:

• It's free
• No fines on overdue books, for children under 16
• No charge for damaged books for under fives
• Books are important for babies for: eye co-ordination, stimulation, bonding, language development and literacy

For further information contact:  Family Library Link, Central Library, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2DX or Email: family.librarylink@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

 

 

 

Associated documents:

• Family Library Link Timetable  (0.03 MB)

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