Library program kicks off an early love for reading

Frances Sewell is one of the many young locals who have been inspired by the Reading Rabbits program over 15 years. Image supplied.
The Shire of Augusta Margaret River is celebrating 15 years of a program which has encouraged a love of reading for countless students across the region.
‘Reading Rabbits’ involves Year 1 students from seven schools within the shire, as well as home-schooled and Montessori students who access it through the Library.
Shire President Julia Meldrum said the program is a shining example of what can be achieved through community collaboration and a shared love of reading.
“We look forward to many more years of inspiring young readers,” she said.
The Shire’s ‘Reading Rabbits’ program equips Year 1 students with a pack containing library information, colouring activities and a reading rewards voucher card.

The children earn stamps on their card for each library visit, with prizes awarded as incentives.
After eight stamps, they receive a $10 book voucher for the Margaret River Bookshop.
During school visits, librarian Rachael discusses the joys of reading, explains the program and plays a fun game.
“The response from students is always positive, with many eager to visit the library and find books to read.”
The initiative is funded by the Rotary Club of Margaret River, Margaret River Bookshop and AMR Shire Libraries.
This year, 245 packs were handed out, bringing the total to approximately 3,600 since the program began in 2010.
Last year, the program won the Community Literacy Initiative Award at the Australian Booksellers Association conference in Melbourne after it was submitted by the Margaret River Bookshop.
Since the award, bookshops in Alice Springs and Torquay have expressed interest in embedding the program in their own communities.
The Library also offers Book Bandicoots, a reading incentive program for children aged 7 to 17 years, rewarding students with a $15 voucher to the Margaret River Bookshop after 10 library visits and a book review.