National Simultaneous Storytime 2005

National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) 2005 will take place during National Literacy and Numeracy Week, on Friday 2 September 2005 at 11:00am AEST.

This year we'll be doing things a little differently!

In 2005, ALIA will be providing a one-stop shop for your NSS participation. Organisations wishing to participate in NSS will be able to do so through the ALIA website. For just $27.95, participants will receive:

• a hardback, 21st anniversary edition of the 2005 NSS picture book, Wombat stew
• an exclusive Wombat stew activity promotion pack containing a poster, bookmarks, balloons, a guide for readers theatre, craft ideas, and a media kit for promoting NSS in your library.

Only by ordering via ALIA's NSS order form [227K PDF] or through the ALIA shop will you be able to receive this fantastic offer of the hardcover edition of Wombat stew along with the exclusive activity promotion pack, and postage is included! An activity pack containing merchandise only and a pack containing 50 Wombat stew balloons is also available for purchase.

ALIA invites all public library services, primary and pre-school libraries, early-childhood centres and pre-schools to participate in reading the picture book Wombat stew simultaneously throughout the country. Wombat stew is written by Marcia K Vaughan, illustrated by Pamela Lofts and published by Scholastic Australia. Wombat stew will be celebrating its 21st anniversary in 2005 - Scholastic will be releasing a special hardback anniversary edition, for use during NSS.

Background

The Australian Library and Information Association organises National Simultaneous Storytime in September every year. 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.

The successful National Simultaneous Storytime was first held during Library and Information Week 2001. Since 2002, NSS has taken place during National Literacy and Numeracy Week. The cross-promotion of National Simultaneous Storytime and National Literacy and Numeracy Week by ALIA and the Commonwealth Department of Education, Science and Training (DEST) has resulted in a greater interest in National Simultaneous Storytime and ensures that the event continues to attract a wide audience from around Australia.

National Simultaneous Storytime provides a great opportunity to involve parents, grandparents, the press and others 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.

2005 sponsors