Bookstart

Please note: Central library services are currently delivering Bookstart Books for Babies to our local libraries and they are linking with local health centres to arrange delivery to them.

Treasure Bags - some of the LEA nurseries have had a delivery and the rest will be receiving theirs before March next year. Private and Voluntary nurseries will not receive their Treasure Bags until after March.

Give your baby a head start - share a book

All babies and toddlers are now entitled to two FREE Bookstart packs before they start school.

2 steps to a lifetime of enjoyment and discovery...

Step one - Bookstart Baby

Share books every day for just a few minutes

Point to the pictures and talk about the story

Join in at a session for under 5s at a library near you

Babies can join the library as soon as they are born.

There is no charge for damage to books

It is all absolutely FREE

The Bookstart Baby bag contains two board books and other goodies. For babies aged 0 to 12 months. Available from Health Visitors or libraries (only one pack per child).

Step two - Bookstart Treasure Bags

Develop the foundations of reading

Talk to your child about the stories and characters

Point to the text as you read

Take pre-school children to the library

Let them choose more books to read together

The new Bookstart Treasure bag contains two picture books and other goodies. For children in the year before starting school reception class. Available from your child's nursery or from a library if your child is cared for at home. (Only one pack per child).

How can I get my first Bookstart pack?

You should be given one by your Health Visitor at your baby's first development check. If you do not receive one then, you can arrange to pick up a pack from your local library and register your baby as a member at the same time.

Special Booktouch and Bookshine packs are available for children with particular needs - ask your health visitor.

Bookstart helpline:0121 303 2175.
E-mail:angela.m.king@birmingham.gov.uk

More information on books for under 5s

www.bookstart.org.uk

Parents and Carers menu
Library services for children under 5

Please note: We are not responsible for the content of other organisations' websites.