Glen Innes primary school students and their parents/carers will have a new activity these school holidays, thanks to an initiative of Public School librarian, Ms Katie Randall.
Ms Randall told the News that she had been thrilled with the participation in a recent community activity associated with the National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) which is held annually by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA).
Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country.
Now in its 25th successful year, it is a colourful, vibrant, fun event that aims to promote the value of reading and literacy, using an Australian children’s book that explores age-appropriate themes, and addresses key learning areas of the National Curriculum for Foundation to Year 6.
Ms Randall said the 2025 event had involved Glen Innes trucks and their drivers who took part in a parade which was witnessed by hundreds of students.
Because the parade was so successful, Ms Randall has suggested that parents/carers and students can take part in their own Simultaneous Storytime during the school holidays.
The aim of Simultaneous Storytime is to:
- promote the value of reading and literacy
- to promote the value and fun of books
- to promote Australian writers and publishers.
“The Truck Cat” was the book chosen for the 2025 event and proved extremely popular with students, Ms Randall said.
“I encourage students to select their own Australian children’s book, and to participate in their own version of National Simultaneous Storytime over the upcoming school holidays with their families, friends and neighbours. This is a great opportunity to recognise and highlight the importance of quality Australian literature, not just on NSS day, but every single day of the year!”
“I cannot thank enough all of the truck drivers, organisers, supporters and participants who came together and helped make our Truck Parade what it was for National Simultaneous Storytime. The power of community absolutely blew me away, and the smiles on our student’s faces (and adults!) was worth every second. Not to mention full lights and sirens from our incredible local emergency services and the police escort leading the parade, which made two laps of a lengthy block.
