National Simultaneous Storytime 2004

The successful National Simultaneous Storytime was first held during Library and Information Week 2001. Since 2002, National Simultaneous Storytime has taken place during Literacy and Numeracy Week - and as a result, achieved a higher profile and increased publicity with more than 750 locations registering each year.

In 2004, National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) will again be held during Literacy and Numeracy Week. The cross-promotion of NSS and Literacy and Numeracy Week by ALIA and the Department of Education, Science and Training (DEST) through web links, promotional material and published articles has resulted in a greater interest in NSS and will ensure that National Simultaneous Storytime will continue to attract a wide audience and be held in an even-greater number of locations.

The aim of National Simultaneous Storytime is to promote the value of reading and literacy; promote the value of books; promote an Australian writer and publisher; and promote storytime activities in public libraries around the country. Storytime is a highly-valued and utilised service to the community.

NSS is a great opportunity to invite parents, grandparents, local politicians and other officials, the press and community groups to participate in and enjoy the occasion. At the same time, it highlights the importance of reading and literacy in children, and demonstrates how this can be a fun experience.

National Simultaneous Storytime 2004 will take place during Literacy and Numeracy Week on Friday 3 September 2004 at 11:00am AEST. ALIA invites all public library services, primary and pre-school libraries, early-childhood centres and pre-schools to participate in reading the picture book Muddled-up farm simultaneously throughout the country. Muddled-up farm is written by Australian author Mike Dumbleton and illustrated by Jobi Murphy. [ISBN 1 74 051733 4]. Muddled-up farm was awarded Book of the Year for speech and sound awareness by Speech Pathology Australia in 2003.

Random House offers a generous 55 per cent discount on the $14.95 RRP for participating organisations that place orders for Muddled-up farm directly with the publisher ($6.75 per copy). Payment can only be accepted by credit card. Please send credit card details to Greg Brooks, Random House Australia, 20 Alfred Street, Milsons Point 2061 fx 02 9954 4562. This offer is only valid to 'one-drop' orders - organisations will not be able to top up their orders.

National Simultaneous Storytime 2004 is kindly sponsored by Australia Post. The sponsorship allows the production and distribution of promotional posters, bookmarks and certificates.