Places are now available for the popular Reading Buddy program run at select Central Coast Council libraries during Term Four (October – December 2016).

Aimed at developing the literacy skills of school aged children and fostering a lifelong love of reading, the program matches students one-on-one with Reading Buddy volunteers from across the community.

Council’s Library Services Coordinator Michelle Swan-Beardmore said Reading Buddy programs have been shown to enhance literacy outcomes in young people around the globe.

“The Reading Buddy program is so successful because children enjoy quality time and the undivided attention of an adult dedicated to helping them improve their literacy skills and encourage their enjoyment for reading,” said Ms Swan-Beardmore.

“Children develop a real rapport with their Reading Buddy and our volunteers gain just as much from the program as the students do.

“Previous term programs run here on the Central Coast have been fully booked out, proving the program’s popularity and value with both volunteers and students.”

The program consists of bookings for half an hour per week, every week for the ten-week school term. Some volunteers opt to be partnered with more than one student per term.

Volunteers receive training prior to commencing the program and are subject to all the necessary checks.

The Reading Buddy program is available at Woy Woy, Kincumber, Erina, Umina and Gosford libraries, and builds on Central Coast Council libraries’ comprehensive children's literacy programs. For more information on any of our library programs visit: www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Anyone looking to be a part of the Term Four Reading Buddy program either as a volunteer or to book in their child can contact Council's Outreach Services Librarian on 0447 162 210 or at: elizabeth.robertson@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au