Let’s hear it for the Portree Chatterbooks

Ten children from Skye will receive their reward on Saturday (26 June) for successfully completing the Chatterbooks challenge at their local library.

The 5 to 11 year olds have all finished the very first series of the nationally run scheme that has been taking place at Portree Community Library.  Since last November they have attended the special monthly sessions aimed at inspiring them to read adventurously, develop confidence in expressing their abilities but most of all, to have a great time doing it.

On Saturday Skye’s representative on The Highland Council’s Education, Culture and Sport Committee, Councillor Drew Millar, will officially present the Chatterbooks certificates to the youngsters.

Councillor Millar said:  “Chatterbooks is a wonderful scheme and it is great that children living on Skye now have the chance to take part in it. 

 “Through participation in Chatterbooks the children have been encouraged to enjoy reading for its own sake and then to share their enthusiasm and inspiration with their friends and family.  At the same time it has also given them a greater understanding about their own local library and how to make the most use of it.”

 At the Saturday morning sessions in Portree Library, the first group of Chatterbooks regulars have been involved in everything from book reviews to colouring, puzzles, quizzes and word games.   Their bright displays and the projects they have completed have also provided a cheerful back drop to be admired by other library users.

Library Assistant Gail Ross, added:  “Similar Chatterbooks sessions are held at Lochcarron library but we are really pleased that our first group have received their certificates and we are already looking forward to our next series which is due to start in September.

 “We are open to children aged 4 to 12 years although numbers are limited so those wishing to take part will have to register.

“If youngsters or their parents want to find out more they can contact me at the library by telephoning 01478 614823 or email  Gail.Ross@highland.gov.uk. “