The Cobourg Public Library is launching the new year with a full slate of programs focused on literacy, technology support and community learning, including a Family Literacy Day reading challenge, hands-on tech help, teen study supports and weekly family programming.
One of the key initiatives running through January is the Family Literacy Day Reading Challenge, which continues until January 27. Families can pick up a reading log at the library, track their reading together and submit it by the end of the month for a chance to win a literacy prize pack.
Rachel Spence from the Cobourg Public Library says the challenge is designed to encourage families to build reading into their daily routines.
“We have Family Literacy Day Reading Challenge happening until January 27th. Families can pick up a reading log to track their reading and then enter by January 27th to win a literacy prize pack.”
Family Literacy Day, recognized nationally on January 27 and led by ABC Life Literacy Canada, highlights the importance of families learning together. Research cited by the library shows children who are read to regularly are exposed to significantly more language before entering school.
The library also offers TumbleBook Library, a digital read-along service available online through the library’s website. The platform features narrated children’s books with highlighted text, helping early readers follow along while building pronunciation and comprehension skills.
“It’s a virtual website… it has the most recent books for children and it’s read along, so they can learn how to pronounce the words effectively by reading along on the screen.”
Technology help returns this month with Tech Buddies, a free drop-in program pairing community members with student volunteers from Trinity College. The sessions begin January 13 and run Tuesdays from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. through February 24.
Spence says the program supports people using a wide range of devices and experience levels.
Teens will also be supported during Exam Cram Study Week, running January 22 to 29, with dedicated study space and small incentives for students preparing for exams.
Weekly Family Story Times continue every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. for children up to age six, offering stories, songs and rhymes in a social setting.
According to Spence, “It’s a great opportunity to get out there, connect with new people, but also for your child to be engaging with other children.”
More information on programs and digital resources is available through the Cobourg Public Library.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
