Literacy a feather in cap for readers

Libraries across the Shire of Manjimup are participating in the hunt for five golden feather bookmarks as part of a campaign aimed at encouraging young people to read.

Hundreds of feather bookmarks were hidden in libraries across the State ahead of the literacy treasure hunt which kicked off on March 1.

Libraries in Manjimup, Pemberton, Northcliffe and Walpole are all participating, and Manjimup librarian Rachel Daubney said she had already seen children come to her library and engage more with literacy as a direct result of the campaign.

“They’re very excited,” Ms Daubney said.

“Previously they were visiting a little bit and now they’re like ‘hmm I might see if i can’t get a big bunch of books’.

“And they’re requesting that we get books in that they’re actually engaged with reading, as opposed to just coming to the library.”

She said literacy was an incredibly important “life-long learning tool” for both education and community engagement. “There are so many positive outcomes to literacy,” she said.

Five golden feathers, 20 silver feathers and hundred of colour-me-in feathers have slipped into libraries across the State, with prizes up for grabs including free books, iPads, hotel stays and more.

The hunt is part of the lead up to the Scribbler’s Festival which kicks off on May 9 in Perth and is dedicated to encouraging young readers to “explore the adventures that await them on the shelves of their local libraries.”