Sharing the love of books with Ipswich Libraries podcasts

11 September 2020

Ipswich Libraries has launched the First 5 Forever Library Fun Podcast to share the love of reading with young audiences.

The First 5 Forever podcasts are part of the virtual programming being offered by Ipswich Libraries while in-person programs are on hold during COVID-19.

The new series of podcasts use a mix of music, sound effects and the voices of local children to bring the stories to life.

Children’s classics which have featured in the first episodes of the First 5 Forever Library Fun Podcast include Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak and Wombat Stew by Marcia K Vaughan and Pamela Loft.

Chair of the Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee, Councillor Andrew Fechner, said Ipswich Libraries’ new virtual programs aimed to educate and entertain young minds.

“The First 5 Forever podcasts are the latest offering in a great range of fun virtual programs to help keep Ipswich children entertained heading into the school holidays,” Cr Fechner said.

“While our libraries remain open, programming in person at our branches is currently on hold to help stop the spread of COVID-19, but there’s still plenty on the Ipswich Libraries website for kids to enjoy while at home.

“Council is committed to keeping everyone in our community safe, while still enjoying the fantastic selection of programs, workshops and events that our libraries offer.”

Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said the new offerings would be good news to parents in the lead-up to school holidays.

“I know how much my two young kids love the school holiday activities at Ipswich Libraries, so I’m thrilled that there is an extensive range of virtual activities on offer,” Cr Jonic said.

“From the new podcasts and Zoom workshops where you can create your own characters and make your own picture book, there’s plenty of activities for kids of all ages.

“If your kids enjoy making things, you can even pick up your own ‘Grab and Go’ kit from your local library and help them build their own simple mechanical toys.”

Visit the Ipswich Libraries website for the full list of Virtual programs on offer: https://www.ipswichlibraries.com.au/virtual-activities-and-offerings/

First 5 Forever is an initiative of the Queensland Government, coordinated by State Library of Queensland and delivered in partnership with local government.