A GREAT START FOR OUR LITTLEST LEARNERS

A new initiative in Ōtorohanga is helping give the district’s youngest residents a strong start in life - one book at a time. Te Puna Pukapuka - Babies Need Books is a programme led by Ōtorohanga District Library, supporting whānau from the very beginning of their child’s reading journey. Through the initiative, every new baby in the district will receive a free book, along with helpful information about library services and early childhood programmes.

The programme is made possible thanks to the generous support of Ōtorohanga Rotary Club, who have funded the initiative, alongside a strong local partnership with Plunket. Packs are provided to whānau through Plunket visits, helping connect families with books right from the start.

Library staff say the programme reflects a shared community goal - supporting tamariki and their whānau from the earliest stages of life.

“Reading, talking and singing with babies helps build strong foundations for language, learning and connection,” they say. “It’s something simple that can make a big difference, and it’s never too early to start.”

Ōtorohanga District Library is a welcoming space for babies, children and whānau, and the team is looking forward to meeting families as they begin their reading journey.

“This is a real community effort,” staff say. “We’re proud to be working alongside Plunket and grateful to Ōtorohanga Rotary Club for making this possible.”