Orange City Libraries is heading into phase three of easing COVID-19 restrictions and will return its literacy programs.
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Librarian Sean Brady said he is looking forward to bringing back the free programs of Ten Minutes a Day, 1,2 Books, Storytime, Music for Little Ears and Pageturners Book Club.
"So far, we have had a good response from parents and children with the 1,2 Books session but we didn't have any sign ups for the Ten Minutes a Day this week," he said.
"I think this is because people are self isolating and they are approaching this time in their own way.
"But the number of enrollments could turn around next week."
On Mondays, the Ten Minutes a Day program is aimed at children between zero to one-years old to help develop pre-literacy skills and to get them on track for reading and language development, with spaces limited to 14.
On Mondays and Tuesdays, the 1, 2 Books program will have up to 14 parents and children read books, sing songs and play action rhymes to encourage engagement with language and literacy for children aged between one to two years.
Between Tuesdays and Thursdays, Storytime is limited to 18 people and Music For Little Ears will start next week with Samantha Bartholemeusz from Orange Regional Conservatorium.
For adults, the Pageturners Book Club will return on a monthly basis and limited to 10 people, with August 12 kicking off a book discussion of the Miles Franklin Literary Award shortlist.
Mr Brady said staff, parents and children, will have to adhere to hygiene and social distancing restrictions.
"We are asking parents to book ahead to participate in the program as spaces are limited and we will have a check in process at the library before entering," he said.
"We have hand sanitisation stations available, people are to follow 1.5 metre rule and if you are feeling unwell, please stay at home."
Mr Brady added it is a big deal for the library to reopen its programs.
"We are very excited to be in the next phase and we're constantly aware of the advice and regulations given by the health authorities and council," he said.
"But nothing is like being in the same social space with kids and parents."
To book a session, head to:https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/central-west-libraries-14213480746
If you have any questions or require assistance with bookings, please contact the library on 6393 8132.
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