Activites such as reading time, creative writing and arts and crafts have provided hours of fun and entertainment.

Liverpool Plains Shire Council (LPSC) Werris Creek librarian, Marilyn Deeks said libraries today are as important as ever in aiding childhood development.

“The ability to read well and comprehend is probably more vital now than it has ever been,” Ms Deeks said.

“Regular library visits unsurprisingly lead to more reading and educationalists will tell you that reading is brain food.

“Research shows that reading actually aids in brain development, especially in a child’s first five years of life. 

“When kids are read to, their brain cells literally turn on, and existing links among brain cells are strengthened and new links formed.”

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Both of the LPSC public libraries in Qurindi and Werris Creek will continue to have activities going forward.

“Both the shires libraries have story times for children, Quirindi on Mondays at 10.30am and Werris Creek on Tuesdays from 11.30am,” Ms Deeks said.

“Parents and carers are invited and encouraged to bring their kids along and see what it’s all about. Interaction with other kids also helps build their social skills.

“A visit to the library allows you to expose your children to more books and magazines than most families can afford to buy.

“As librarians we can recommend books that you may not know of or think to suggest, broadening their tastes and expanding their minds and vocabularies,” she said.

“Where once libraries were passive places today’s young library patrons engage with books, magazines, with librarians, computers and other kids. It is a fun, educational environment.

“Call in and check out what your library has to offer plus different programs/group activities on offer, not only for kids but for people of all ages.

“Encourage your children to visit the library and reap the many benefits it offers.”