Joined up thinking!

A NEW initiative spearheaded by Dublin Lord Mayor Paul McAuliffe was launched in Ballymun Library last week.

Join Up, Join In is aimed at encouraging 9 and 10-year-olds in 4th class to sign up to their local library.

The initiative kicks off with a competition for 4th class pupils to design a new library card for children. The winning design will be used for all children’s library cards in the future.  

The Lord Mayor said that as a father with small children the initiative was very close to his heart.

“When I see the joy my children get from reading books and engaging with our local library events, I want to spread this opportunity to every child living in Dublin,” he explained.

“I encourage 4th class teachers to get their pupils involved by entering the competition to design the new children’s library card.

“This card could be the start of a lifetime’s involvement in reading and creative activities for children who might otherwise never visit a library – and it’s all for free.”

Mairead Owens, Dublin City Librarian, said she was very proud to support the Lord Mayor’s Initiative of inviting all 4th class children to join Dublin City Council libraries.

“In the libraries we celebrate childhood and children through the joy of reading,” she continued.

“Our branch libraries provide fun spaces to enjoy, imagine and explore, so I also invite all 4th class children in the Dublin City area to ‘Join Up and Join In’.

“We look forward to welcoming you with your friends and family to your local library.”

Children can enter the competition by handing their designs in to their local library or enter through their schools. A design template is available from all branches of Dublin City Council libraries and participating schools and the competition will run until November 22.

A welcoming pack, including the new card, will be delivered to all 4th classes early in 2020.