What’s Happening?
Rockhampton Regional Council Libraries are celebrating Children’s Book Week with the annual Big Book Giveaway. The program supports early reading and welcomes local families into library spaces.
This year’s theme is “Symphony of Stories”. Residents are encouraged to visit a regional library in their best Book Week costume.
Why It Matters
Mayor Tony Williams said the celebration helps children build an early connection with reading.
“Children’s Book Week is a favourite time of year for many families across the region and it’s great to see children develop a passion for reading from a young age,” Mayor Williams said.
“We know the first five years are critical to a child’s literacy journey and lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.”
Local Impact
Communities and Heritage Councillor Drew Wickerson said the giveaway benefits children both inside libraries and at home.
“The Big Book Giveaway is one of the highlights of Children’s Book Week and a wonderful opportunity to help young children build a positive connection with books from an early age,” Councillor Wickerson said. “Reading together supports language development, imagination and learning, and having books in the home encourages families to make reading part of everyday life.”
By the Numbers
- Children aged 0-5 may take home one free board book or picture book from a Rockhampton Regional Library.
- Wednesday, 26 August is this year’s giveaway date. Children’s Book Week runs from 22 to 28 August.
Zoom In
Parents can bring their child to any Rockhampton Regional Library and let them select a book. If they cannot attend, a grandparent, carer, aunt or uncle may collect it for them.
“I encourage parents, grandparents, carers and extended family members to visit one of our libraries this week and take advantage of this fantastic initiative,” Councillor Wickerson said.
“Our libraries play an important role in supporting local families and creating welcoming spaces where children can discover the joy of stories, books and lifelong learning.”
Mayor Williams said thousands of books are distributed through the program each year. “Every year we see thousands of books given away as part of the Big Book Giveaway and I thank the Queensland Government and State Library of Queensland for this important initiative.”
Zoom Out
First Five Forever is an initiative of the Queensland Government. The State Library of Queensland coordinates the program, which is delivered with local government.
The Big Book Giveaway connects Rockhampton’s Book Week activities with wider early literacy support for Queensland families.
What To Look For Next?
Children’s Book Week continues until Friday, 28 August. Residents can still visit a Rockhampton Regional Library in their best Book Week costume.
Families may also carry the week’s focus into daily life by reading together and keeping books at home.
