Oct 6

Written by: Joe Longo
Saturday, October 06, 2007 

The Debbie Zimmerman Early Years Niagara Literary Award Committee has established a unique award for children's literature aimed at the 0-6 age group. Five outstanding books have been short listed by the Selection Committee for the 2007 award. Families are encouraged to read these books together before voting online or by paper ballot at public libraries, Ontario Early Years Centres, and regional child care centres.

The books are "17 things I'm not allowed to do anymore" by Jenny Offill, "Grumpy bird" by Jeremy Tankard, "Not a box" by Antointette Portis, "Orange pear apple bear" by Emily Gravett and "The perfect nest" by Catherine Friend. All may be borrowed at our for libraries where you can vote for your favourite until Nov. 30^th. The winner will be announced in January at a Regional Council meeting.

This award is named for Debbie Zimmerman in recognition of her service as Regional Chair of the Niagara Region. It highlights the importance of the youngest citizens in Niagara; encourages early reading with children from infancy to age six; helps parents choose the right books for children from infancy to age six; and celebrates children's authors. A review of existing awards for excellence in children's literature showed that none existed in Canada for infants to age six. This award aims to draw attention not only to the value of reading with children in their early years when their brains are at peak development, but also to the need for quality books for this age group.

In partnership with the Touch a Truck fundraiser for children's literacy, over 600 copies of the award-winning books have been provided to Ontario Early Years Centres, licensed child care centres, pediatrician's offices, and other sites where families and childen gather.

Some registrations are still being taken at our four libraries for Saturday craft programs for children. The annual costume parade and party will be held on Oct. 27. After the parade children will enjoy prizes, food, movies and treat bags.

The Library will be closed on Oct. 8 for Thanksgiving. Use the book return slots at all four libraries and visit anytime the library website www.nfpl.library.on.ca to search the catalogue and databases, place holds, renewals and much more.