I am already a reader – Book for First Grader

Abstract

The project, which is organized by Association of Library and Information Professionals of the Czech Republic, started in 2008, brings together libraries and schools to develop reading habits of primary school first-graders (age 6 to 7). As part of the project, the children’s departments of public libraries organise events for school children, including library tours, reading sessions for both adults and children, meetings with book writers and illustrators, book discussions, and exhibitions. The number of events varies by library and number of school classes involved.

For all children who participate in the events there is something extraordinary to look forward to – a book prepared exclusively for them. Every year a brand new (previously unpublished) book title for children with original illustrations is produced which is not made available for sale for at least three subsequent years. So far, more than 270,000 pupils have received the book.

The number of project participants is increasing from year to year; in 2021, more than 500 libraries and over 800 schools were participating. This project is an important example of how libraries, through strengthened partnership with schools, can contribute to achieving the country’s educational goals.