Library card scheme opens new chapter for school-starters

School-starters will receive a library card as part of a new Wigan Council scheme to help families access wide-ranging support.

All reception pupils will be given the cards to encourage more residents to visit the borough’s amazing library network.

Each of the borough’s 15 library locations give children opportunities to borrow books and resources free of charge and offer fun classes alongside regular advice and support sessions for all the family.

The new scheme was announced at a meeting of the Full Council this week.

Leader of Wigan Council, Councillor David Molyneux MBE, said: “Our libraries are the heartbeat of our local communities and offer so many opportunities to families across the borough.

“We hope this scheme will see our new school-starters have easy access to the wealth of books and e-books available and encourage their whole family to also sign-up.

“Remember, our library cards here in Wigan Borough are free for all ages and we have wonderful teams ready to welcome you to their library community, unlocking amazing learning and leisure resources.”

It is part of the council’s Progress With Unity approach, which includes a focus on reducing educational, health and financial inequalities by creating fair opportunities for children and families.

It will be paired with a similar scheme that will see parents offered a card for their new-born baby when they register the birth.

Councillor Jenny Bullen, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “We’re delighted to be introducing this scheme for our new school-starters.

“We hope it will inspire a love of reading and help boost literacy levels across the borough, but there’s so much on offer at our libraries.

“We’re helping to open the door for these children and their families to discover what’s on offer at our libraries beyond the educational benefits.”

The scheme will initially be launched as a pilot project ahead of a wider roll-out.

Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet member for communities and neighbourhoods, said: “We’re proud that our libraries continue to flourish when we have unfortunately seen fellow authorities across the country forced to close them during the past decade.

“Our libraries offer amazing support facilities and this initiative will hopefully see our young people encourage their whole family to pop-in.”

For more information and details of what’s available at your local library, click or tap here.