Sensitive Storytime’s inclusive approach to foster a love of reading 29 September 2022 The Bega Valley Shire Library’s upcoming Sensitive Storytimes pilot program aims to inclusively cater for children with sensory processing needs who may benefit from a more controlled and lower stimulus environment. Library Learning and Engagement Officer, Sugita Wahl said the sessions, which will be open to all children, are the result of community feedback given through the library’s recent Inclusive Practices in Storytime survey. “We are grateful for the community response and interest in the survey,” Ms Wahl said. “The feedback is being used to make all library programs more inclusive to children with autism and other sensory processing disorders.” Ms Wahl said Storytime is one of the library’s most popular and enduring programs. It fosters a love of reading, teaches early literacy skills, promotes school readiness and provides social networks for children and their families. “We’re

 All branches of Bega Valley Shire Library will be closed on Monday 3rd October, re-opening Tuesday 4th October 2022.

In response to the passing last week of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Prime Minister Albanese announced that Thursday 22 September 2022 will be a national public holiday to mourn her death. This is a one-off public holiday with all branches of Bega Valley Shire Library closed for the day. Branches will re-open 10:00am Friday 23rd September.

Older Person Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training will teach you practical skills to support an older person with a mental health problem. This valuable course runs over two days and is offered for free this mental health month thanks to Bega SPAN and Bega Valley Shire Library. The course is running at Tura Marrang Library from 13-14 October 2022. In this course you will learn how to: - Recognise common mental health problems in older people - Provide initial help using a practical, evidence-based Action Plan - Seek appropriate professional help, and - Respond in a crisis situation Make a real difference to the older people in your community. You can register here: