Darlington Libraries gift books to disadvantaged children

Darlington Libraries are gifting quality books to disadvantaged children in the borough in a bid to raise speech and language outcomes for young children before they start school.

The books, gifted in partnership with Kings Church and the network of foodbanks in Darlington, will be given to children aged 0 – 5 in Darlington over the summer.

Library Manager Suzy Hill said “We recognise that these are challenging times for families in Darlington, with limited access to the education, children’s centres and libraries that are usually offered. Reading can be an important escape for many children, and shared reading can help support language development, confidence, communication skills and resilience, helping to close the gap created by lockdown.

“In collaboration with BookTrust we have been able to acquire these wonderful care packages of board books, picture books, rhyme sheets and craft packs and Kings Church and the hardworking network of foodbanks were keen to support by ensuring these reach the children most in need this summer.

“We would like to remind all families that our libraries are free to join and free to borrow from and we have an enormous range of books for all ages to enjoy. Reading for pleasure and sharing books is one of the best things for improving outcomes for children and we welcome all families to visit our libraries and see what’s on offer.”

These resources will be gifted to families with young children by volunteers at the foodbanks as their food parcels are collected.