Nearly 3,000 children in County Cork have been part of the My Little Library initiative this year, with strong participation in West Cork libraries.

The programme encourages children moving from pre-school to primary school to visit their local library, where they receive a free book bag and can get a library membership.

So far, 2,932 children in Cork have collected their bags, adding to nearly 20,000 new library memberships nationwide.

The book bags, available in both English and Irish, contain stories, guides, and useful resources to help families support their child’s move to primary school.

Packs also include information for parents, featuring guidance from the First 5 initiative and resources from Dyslexia Ireland and Vision Ireland.

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley, said: ‘Reading is a magical gift, and it’s wonderful to give children the chance to develop a love of reading early on.

The move from pre-school to primary school is a big step, and books help strengthen bonds between parents and children while promoting crucial early language and literacy skills.’

To pick up a My Little Library Bag find out more from your local library in Bantry, Clonakilty, Dunmanway, Schull, Skibbereen, Castletownbere, Ballyvourney or Sherkin Island.