September is National Literacy Month, a time dedicated to celebrating and promoting the importance of reading and writing.

Throughout the month, various events and activities are organised to highlight the joy of books and the crucial role literacy plays in personal and community development.

Librarians from Ocean View, Fish Hoek, and Muizenberg libraries have shared their favourite book picks and practical tips for fostering a love of reading at home.

Rika Smit, from Fish Hoek library, says literacy is fundamental for communication, education, and critical thinking.

“Literacy starts with a person being able to read. When able to read, you are able to communicate better, share ideas, improve your education, assist with making informed choices regarding jobs, for example, and expand on critical thinking. It is a skill much needed in society.”

The library is set to launch a reading programme for Grade 4s designed to help children who struggle with reading comprehension and vocabulary.

“As students are expected to read chapter books and answer descriptive questions in school, the programme will support them in expanding their vocabulary and improving their reading skills,” says Ms Smit.

To promote reading at home, Ms Smit suggests the 1000 Stories programme, which encourages parents to read to their children and track the number of books read.

"This programme helps build a reading culture at home," she says.

She also recommends setting up a book corner, using educational apps, and choosing books that match a child’s interests.

Her book picks include Again! by Emily Gravett for young children, Hello Melancholic! by Yayohi Ohsawa for teens, and The Inheritance Cycle by Christopher Paolini for more serious readers.

Adults might enjoy Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin, The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett, or The Seven Sisters series by Lucinda Riley.

Ocean View librarian Marlene Davids says literacy programmes can help people pursue further education, enhance job prospects and become more involved in their communities.

"These programmes are especially important for under-served or marginalised groups, as they bridge educational and opportunity gaps, promoting greater equity and inclusion."

For encouraging reading at home, Ms Davids suggests creating a special reading space—a cosy corner with comfy chairs, good lighting, and easy access to books.

"Let kids help decorate this space to make it feel personal.“

She also suggests parents set an example by reading regularly themselves.

“Let your children see you enjoying books, newspapers, or magazines. Discuss what you're reading and why you like it to spark their interest.”

She says e-books and audiobooks, available through the Libby app, can also add variety.

Her book recommendations include What the Ladybird Heard by Julia Donaldson for young children, Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson for teens, and Rosie by Lesley Pearse and Sandra Browne for adults.

Karen Neffdt, at Muizenberg library, says the library works with U-Turn, an organisation that helps the homeless to get off the streets, to offer basic computer skills and reading support.

To foster a reading environment at home, she recommends setting aside dedicated reading time, such as bedtime or mid-afternoon.

"It’s crucial to choose a time when both parent and child are relaxed to encourage a reading culture at home," she says.

Her book recommendations are The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson for children, The Fault in Our Stars by John Green for teens, and The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri for adults.

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