Bookstart is a national programme that encourages all parents and carers to enjoy books with children from as early an age as possible. We want every child in the UK to develop a lifelong love of books.
Your Health Visitor will present a free Bookstart pack to your baby at his or her 8-month health assessment. The pack contains two books, a tablemat and a wealth of ideas on sharing books with your child.You can visit your library after receiving your pack to claim another free book for your baby with the compliments of the Library Service!
An Early Years pack is also available from your Health Visitor to every child at his or her two years' health assessment. This pack contains a story and songs book with CD, frieze, crayons and information on enjoying books with your child.
Further information or advice is available on the Bookstart website.
Joining the library
Your baby can join the library from the day he or she is born - free of charge. You can borrow books and story and music tapes as well.
It's enjoying sharing books that is important – and don't worry about accidental damage. We won't charge you for books accidentally damaged by babies and toddlers and we don't fine you for overdue children's books either.
If you would like your baby to become a member of the library just call in to any of our 19 libraries. You will be asked to complete a short application form providing your baby's name, address, date of birth and your signature.
Further information
If you would like any further information or advice about reading with your child, contact your local library or alternatively contact our headquarters on 01443 864062 or email libraries@caerphilly.gov.uk.