Library launches The Great Escape Summer Reading Programme

The Invercargill City Libraries and Archives’ annual summer reading programme is launching soon and staff promise it will be bigger and better than ever, building on the 800 registrations and 50% increase in completion rates from the previous year.
 
Invercargill City Libraries and Archives’ Learning Connections Coordinator Tracy Pasco said the programme, which runs from December 1 to January 20, promoted the love of reading whilst addressing the very real problem of the ‘summer reading slide’.
 
“The ‘summer slide’ relates to the loss of academic ground over the holidays, particularly a drop in reading levels. It affects primarily reluctant readers and lower decile students. Research shows that reading levels can be linked to overall academic success and that the successful acquisition of language through reading, is linked to success later on in life,” Mrs Pasco said.
 
Mrs Pasco said the programme catered for all ages, with a preschool programme being introduced this year in response to customer feedback.
 
“Our children’s booklet has been simplified and offers a variety of reading and creating challenges. Our teens programme has been overhauled and there are four challenge cards to choose from (create, digitise, write or read). The kids don’t just get to have all the summer reading fun, there is an adults’ bingo card running as well!” Mrs Pasco said.
 
Mrs Pasco said the programme had been rebranded this year to be The Great Escape.
 
“A book offers the ultimate escape; into imaginary worlds that capture you, so that you forget you are reading words. It becomes more about the descriptions and conversations that begin to play out like a movie in your mind. The concept was decided on after consultation and collaboration with the Southland District Libraries, Gore District Library, and School Library Association of New Zealand Aotearoa,” Mrs Pasco said.

For more information, drop into the Invercargill Public Library, visit their website, www.ilibrary.co.nz