As libraries across the UK continue to close, it’s time to get to your local library to find out the wealth of benefits they can bring, before they’re all gone!
Charlotte Gater, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning, gives seven benefits of library and the reasons to go to the library:
The benefits of using a library
Libraries are fantastic places to get your child engaged in reading and can be a great way to engage reluctant readers! Sometimes it can be tricky to find the right book to engage a child, but by spending some time in the library they can pick a variety of books to find the ones they like without you having to spend a penny. “There Is No Such Thing As A Child Who Hates To Read; There Are Only Children Who Have Not Found The Right Book” (Frank Serafini, Professor of Literacy Education and Children’s Literature at Arizona State University)
Technology, especially in our current digital age, can be as beneficial as it can be a distraction. The benefit of library is that it allows children to put their phone on silent and step away from the technology. Heading to the library to spend some time together finding books for shared reading is another reason to using a library!
While libraries offer people the chance to step away from the technology, on the other hand, if you don’t have access to the internet at home then you can normally get online at the library. If your child needs to do homework on the computer, then the library is a perfect place to head.
Does your child need to complete a project for school? The library is a great place to get some inspiration on the topic, then they can combine what they’ve discovered in a book with any research they’ve done online.
The library can be a calm sanctuary in a sea of playgrounds, theme parks and soft plays. Not just adults, but also children sometimes need a quiet time and space to relax and read. Head to the library for some quieter family time.
Libraries offer easy access to world knowledge. If your child is struggling to read or learn, a library can be a fantastic place to get them engaged. With vast resources, books and supporting librarians, children can access knowledge that’s not only useful to them, but also interesting!
They’re a place to learn new skills! Libraries run sessions and courses for adults and children. In your local library, you can find everything from coding courses to local history, so pop in to find out what your local library has to offer.
How to maximise your library experience
For many parents, a library is not just a place to find books, but a world of learning and discovery for their children. Here are some key reasons to go to the library and enjoy it, ensuring you and your children get the most out of every visit:
Join library events and activities: many libraries host story times, reading clubs, educational workshops for children and global events like the World Book Day. Participating in these events is a great way to enrich your child’s learning experience and find the new reasons to go to the library.
Utilise Online Library Services: most libraries now offer online catalogues and digital borrowing options. Familiarise yourself with these services to reserve your children’s books, access e-books and stay updated with upcoming library events,
Ask Librarians for Book Recommendations: librarians can be a fantastic resource for book recommendations tailored to your child’s age and interests, enhancing your visits and giving you yet another reason to go to the library.
Attend Parent-Child Reading Sessions: if your local library offers this option, participate in parent-child reading sessions. These sessions are not only enjoyable but can also offer strategies bringing more joy to reading at home.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to fully leverage the benefits of library, making each visit a rewarding experience for you and your child.
Explore Learning’s support
Embracing the vast resources and benefits that libraries offer can significantly enrich your child’s reading and learning experience. At Explore Learning, we’re passionate about encouraging a love of books from an early age! Speak to the team at your local tuition centre to find out how we can support your family!
