It was smiles all round at the 1000 Books Before School presentation at Gunnedah Library yesterday.
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A number of children had reached the milestones of 50, 100, 250, 500 and 750 books, with youngster Fletcher France reaching the target of 1000 books.
The children were presented with their certificates by Gunnedah mayor Owen Hasler, with a special presentation for Ruth France, who suggested the program to the library.
Cr Hasler, a former high school teacher, said taking an interest in books could make education easier for children.
“The earlier they start, the more competitive they are,” he said.
“And they are better off. It opens up lots of doors.”
The program began in Gunnedah in January this year and encourages early childhood literacy and introduces young children to the world of reading.
Children can join at any stage of the year.
“The target of 1000 books may seem huge, but can easily be achieved in less than three years with little effort,” a statement to parents from the library says.
“An investment of one book a day - three to four minutes - is all that is necessary to open a child’s mind to a lifelong love of books and learning.”
The children were excited to receive their certificates and were treated to a morning tea after the presentation.