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Online storytime sessions for young people is a new initiative by Irish public libraries to celebrate great Irish writing with librarians via the internet.
Librarians will livestream storytime sessions or post them online on their social media channels and these videos will remain online while library buildings are closed.
Ordinarily, libraries celebrate families reading together with their ‘Spring into Storytime’ event. This year, the libraries want to highlight the incredible work of Irish authors, by inviting everyone to #LoveIrishWriting.
The initiative is in conjunction with publishers and writers who have waived licencing fees in order to allow full access to the books.
Library storytimes aim to facilitate children who enjoy stories, especially those who may not have access to books in the home or do not have access to new books at this time.
Partnership
Libraries development committee chair Tom Enright said: “I welcome this partnership between public libraries and Irish publishers and writers and I thank them for their generosity in waiving licence fees at this time.
"Our library staff are eager to serve their communities in whatever way they can.
"We know this is a challenging time for families and we hope that virtual storytime, as well as all the other online services libraries provide, continue to be of value to all our members, from younger to older."
Irish Writers Union's Lissa Oliver added: “Ireland is fortunate in having a wonderful tradition of writing for children and of publishing books that lift young imaginations into fantastic journeys, daring adventures and moving encounters. Such tales are much needed just now.
"The Irish Writers Union are proud to be associated with this initiative, which will help entertain children through storytelling while respecting the copyright of the author.”
How do I find Storytime?
Follow your local library service’s social media channels or Libraries Ireland’s Twitter, Instagram and Facebook pages to find out when storytimes in your area will be uploaded.
For more information, click here.
Other services
There are a number of online services already provided by libraries such as eBooks, eAudiobooks, and access to online learning resources on Askaboutireland.ie and Enfo.ie.
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