Early literacy programmes in public libraries: best practice

Abstract Health, housing, education, employment opportunities, income levels, involvement with crime and civic participation for individuals in our society can all be affected by an ability to read, with negative outcomes for those who are unable to read. Children who enter formal education behind in early literacy skills often struggle to catch up through the rest of their schooling, and on into their adult lives. An overseas study tour, enabled by the author winning a Kay Poustie Scholarship from the State Library of Western Australia Foundation, investigated how public libraries in four countries work with the early childhood sector to develop confidence in children’s literacy skills before entering formal schooling. Philosophies of library service were explored, along with specific programmes delivered by libraries to the community. The adaptability of ideas was assessed for use within the Australian public library system, and practitioners can use these ideas as starting points for presentation of early literacy skills according to the particular needs of their local children and parents/carers. The emphasis is on practical activities that libraries of all sizes can be encouraged to offer, including libraries of small size and limited staff. With the development of literacy being a social skill that requires effective and positive relationships between adults and small children, libraries can be a space and place where those relationships can be beneficially nurtured.