Longford Libraries offer free book bags for children

The ‘My Little Library Book Bag’ initiative aims to support young learners

All children in County Longford starting primary school are invited to visit their local library and pick up a free book bag as part of the ‘My Little Library Book Bag’ initiative which aims to to help children prepare for starting school.

Children and their parents or guardians are invited to collect their bag at any County Longford library. These libraries are based in Ballymahon, Drumlish, Edgeworthstown, Granard, Lanesboro and Longford.

The bags will be available throughout the summer. All families are warmly welcomed to join the library if they are not already members. The books and resources in the book bag support parents and their children in the transition to primary school. The bag contains books for the children to keep, with topics such as starting school, making friends and dealing with ‘big’ emotions. My Little Library Bag also has some very useful information for parents on supporting the start in primary school as well as highlighting what is on offer at each local library.

The Department of Children, Disability and Equality run a transitions campaign every summer aimed at families of young children starting pre-school or school. You can find more information on Let's Get Ready.

Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Garry Murtagh said, “The My Little Library Book Bag is a wonderful initiative that gives every child beginning their school journey the gift of stories, imagination and learning. By placing books in their hands and a library card in their pocket, we are opening the door to a lifetime of discovery and opportunity. Our libraries are at the heart of our communities and this scheme ensures that every family feels welcome and supported as their children take this important step.”

Longford County Council Chief Executive Paddy Mahon said, “Longford Library Services are delighted to be involved in the ‘My Little Library Book Bag’ initiative. Our libraries play a vital role in fostering inclusion, creativity and opportunity and this initiative shows how local services can make a real difference at the very start of a child’s education."