News & Events

Blacktown City Libraries are excited to launch of the National Year of Reading on Tuesday, 14 February 2012. Many activities will take place at all Blacktown City Libraries to mark the start of this campaign to help turn Australia into a nation of readers by supporting a universal appreciation of the benefits of reading.

The Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Alan Pendleton will launch the National Year of Reading at the following Blacktown City Libraries:

• Max Webber Library, Blacktown, corner Flushcombe Road and Alpha Street, Blacktown at 10.15am
• Dennis Johnson Branch Library, corner Stanhope Parkway and Sentry Drive, Stanhope Gardens at 11.30am
• Our Library at The Mount Druitt Hub, Ayres Grove, Mt Druitt at 3.00pm

"Everyone is warmly invited to attend the launch of the National Year of Reading and discover the range of initiatives planned at Blacktown City Libraries for the year", Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Alan Pendleton said.

On the launch day Blacktown City Libraries will feature many activities such as the launch of the 'Reading Wall', a blind date with a book, Baby Rhyme Time, Storytime plus loads more! The day also marks the celebration of 'Library Lover's Day'.

"Australian libraries and library associations are behind this great campaign to turn 2012 into the National Year of Reading, linking together all the great things that are already happening around books, reading and literacy, and giving them an extra boost, with inspirational programs and events taking place across the country," said Mayor Pendleton.

"Promoting the idea of a reading culture in every home, school and community is a fantastic way to encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to discover and rediscover the joys of reading. All our Councillors are strongly supporting the National Year of Reading" Mayor Pendleton said.

According to the 2006 Adult Literacy and Life Skills Survey1, nearly half of all Australians (46%) don't have the literacy skills they need to cope with everyday life and work. A survey by the Australian Industry Group in May 2010 of major employers found that more than 75% of business owners felt their businesses were affected by low levels of literacy and numeracy in the workforce.

Blacktown City Libraries are partners with the Paint Blacktown REaD program to encourage pre-reading fun for pre-schoolers. The Library will be offering many events and programs throughout 2012 to celebrate Australia's first National Year of Reading.