If you have stepped into Specialist Clinics lately and heard the strum of a ukulele and the chanting of familiar nursery rhymes, you may have stumbled upon one of our monthly singing and storytime sessions run by the State Library of Victoria, our National Year of Reading partners and long-term supporters of the Education Institute.

Christine and Emma from the State Library, along with their talented volunteers Jill and Elizabeth, are bringing their storytelling and performance skills to the hospital once a month to share the joy of reading, rhyming and singing to develop early literacy skills and strengthen bonds between parents, carers and young children.

The State Library runs regular events for young children and their parents and carers. Take a look at their program for July and August below.

Baby Bounce
Wednesday 6 & 20 June, 4 & 18 July, 1 & 29 August, 11.00am–11.45am
A fun session of stories, songs and rhymes designed to help very young children to explore language. For ages up to 2.
Experimedia at State Library of Victoria, Swanston Street, Melbourne
Free (bookings not required)

Storytime for preschoolers
Wednesday 13 & 27 June, 11 & 25 July, 8 August, 11.00am–11.45am
Enjoy stories, songs, rhymes and activities designed to stimulate imagination and language development in preschoolers. For ages 2 to 5.
Experimedia at State Library of Victoria, Swanston Street, Melbourne
Free (bookings not required)

Play Day
Wednesday 15 August 10.00am–1.00pm
Celebrate Playgroup Day at the State Library of Victoria with lots of hands-on activities, library tours, an author visit and storytelling. Simultaneous events will be held at public libraries across the State.
Experimedia at State Library of Victoria, Swanston Street, Melbourne
Free (bookings not required)

Book Week storytime for pre-schoolers
Wednesday 22 August 11.00am–11.45am
Enjoy a Braille storytelling with guests from Vision Australia, to celebrate Children’s Book Week at the State Library.
Experimedia at State Library of Victoria, Swanston Street, Melbourne
Free (bookings not required)