‘Never more important’ to encourage children to read, author says

Parents should not let technology interfere with their children’s reading habits, an author has warned.

Ahead of Ireland Reads Day this Saturday, award-winning children’s author Sarah Webb believes it has never been more important to find books for children.

The Libraries Ireland celebration will be marked in hundreds of libraries nationwide and include in-person author talks by Cecilia Ahern, Rita Ann Higgins and Eve McDonnell.

For example, children in Kerry can drop their favourite toy to Killorglin Library for a sleepover on Friday night, before collecting them at a special storytime the following morning.

Ms Webb said: “Once children have a device, all kinds of things go, everything suffers, even sport.

“It has never been more important to help them find books and as parents, we need to step up and make sure there are nice books around, including Irish books.

“The key is in finding stories that they connect with, find things they want to read but don’t be sniffy about it.

“There seems to be a lot of pushback against funny books and comic books but the number one thing is finding something that keeps them reading.”

Ms Webb said Irish libraries, which also offer audio books and an online borrowbox system, can help foster regular reading habits.

She joins other ambassadors, including Marian Keyes, Dave Rudden and Oliver Callan, in taking part in the campaign.

Stuart Hamilton, head of libraries development at the Local Government Management Agency, said Ireland Reads Day presents an “excellent opportunity to recognise the tremendous value reading brings”.

Minister for Public Health and Wellbeing Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, said reading is an accessible activity that provides “multiple health benefits for all ages”.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Dara Calleary, added: “Reading is more than just a hobby, it’s a chance to learn, to explore and expand your horizons.

“Our libraries and booksellers, in communities across the country, have a wealth of books to bring you enjoyment and pleasure through reading.”

– Events at libraries across the country for Ireland Reads Day is available on irelandreads.ie