$50,000 boost for Australian Reading Hour

The Morrison Government is providing $50,000 to support the 2019 Australian Reading Hour and help increase awareness of talented Australian authors and illustrators.

“Australian Reading Hour is a great initiative which highlights the value of reading for both adults and children,” Minister Fletcher said.

“Literacy is one of the most important foundations and reading has tremendous benefits for children, such as building knowledge and improving concentration and memory.

“Reading has also been shown to reduce stress by 68% in adults, more than listening to music or going for a walk, and is an enjoyable pastime that promotes creativity.”

The funding will enable the Australian Library and Information Association and industry partners to schedule more author readings and promote local and national events.

“On Thursday 19 September I encourage everyone to take the time to immerse yourself in a book, read out loud to a child, or take part in one of this year’s activities to reconnect with reading.”

A schedule of activities and resources for this year’s Australian Reading Hour will be available in the coming months, including a comprehensive program of author readings and library events.

For more information and resources visit: www.readinghour.org.au

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