A BOOKISH scheme to get reluctant Stratford youngsters reading has plotted its way to success.
Warwickshire Libraries’ Chatterbooks programme, aimed at engaging with school children who may otherwise never attend their local library, has achieved national recognition.
It was one of three case studies from across the country presented to MPs at Chartered Institute for Library and Information Professionals’ latest event, Libraries Change Lives by Creating Opportunities.
First delivered as a pilot project in 2022 following the pandemic, Warwickshire libraries invited three of the district’s schools to take part in the Chatterbooks programme.
The schools were able to bring KS2 students, identified as reluctant readers, to visit Stratford Library or Alcester Library on a regular basis, during school time, to undertake Chatterbooks sessions. The sessions were planned and delivered by library staff.
Each session included a variety of accessible and fun activities linked to popular books, crafting, sensory play, and trips to attractions like The Royal Shakespeare Company.
Participants of Chatterbooks did not necessarily have reading capability issues, but rather lacked a general interest in reading.
The Chatterbooks programme continues and staff have been delighted to see children from the programme introducing their family members to their local libraries for the first time too.
Libraries team manager, Laura Benson, first submitted the case study earlier this year during Libraries Change Lives week to highlight the Chatterbooks programme’s success and how it is delivering a positive impact in the areas of learning and social mobility.
