The Little Library Van visits Co-op Academy Glebe

Based in Stoke-on-Trent, the Little Library Van is a mobile storytelling space that visits children and families across the area to ignite a love of literacy.

The van visited the primary academy on the 19 April. The nursery children, and their families, got to participate in a fantastic storytelling workshop. They were met by the Reading Dragon, who started the adventure, leading them to the van where children read about minibeasts and became part of the story themselves. Parents sat with the children and joined in the interactive reading activities.

Thanks to the Book Trust, the entire nursery class got to leave with their very own Book Start reading and activity packs!

The City Library initiative has been successful in the community to inspire a love of reading in children and their parents. Reading helps children build their vocabulary and learn about the world around them, and reading together with parents provides a fantastic way for families to connect.

Due to the day's success, the Little Library Van also visited another primary in the Trust - Co-op Academy Clarice Cliff - on Friday 10 May.

One parent said: `

“It was brilliant. My son smiled and laughed at the stories and was singing and interacting the whole session and he really enjoyed it! What a great experience for him.”

Kirsty Suleman, Head of School, said:

“A great morning was had by pupils, parents and staff. It was wonderful to see the love of reading amongst the families."

Liz Garrity, Head of Community at Co-op Academies Trust, said:

“Our Trust’s Community Team aims to develop as many opportunities for students and communities as possible. This great collaboration with The Little Library Van is a wonderful way to provide links to local community initiatives that are there to support young people and their families. It was an amazing experience for the children, making reading and learning such fun in a welcoming environment.”