THE Port Douglas State School is launching its ‘I Love My Library’ Book Month on Monday.

The initiative aims to increase the number and quality of books in the school library and engage the students further in reading and literary pursuits, by fostering a love of reading and books.

Special guest and speakers at the vent, to be held at 9am in the Cyclone Shelter, include DSC Mayor Julia Leu, who was recently appointed Member of the State Library Board of QLD and also Chairperson of the Public Libraries Advisory Committee in 2016. 

The school has a wonderful learning space under the care of the much loved and respected Mr Martin, but it is in need of a fresh injection of new books. There is a natural attrition of books in libraries so there is a constant requirement to purchase more.

In addition, new books penned by talented contemporary authors are in demand by students. These books should be accessible in school libraries so when a child enters a library they are inspired to pick up a book, read it and not want to put it down.

The school plans to engage the students and community in a number of ways with both fundraising and enrichment activities. Some of these activities and initiatives are as follows.

• Students from PDSS are completing a Read-a-Thon. They are setting goals as to how many books they can read this month and seeking sponsorship for their efforts.
  
  
• Community members are encouraged to come to the school and read their favourite book to a class.
  
  
• On Monday November 7th, the children will take part in a dress up day, taking inspiration from their favourite character in a book.
  
  
• We are asking the community to clean out their bookcases and storerooms and donate any age appropriate books (4 years to 12 years) to the school. Second hand books are most welcome.
  
  
• Community members can also purchase a new book, inscribe a message to the students and donate it to the library. If purchased at Whileaway, the books can be left there for collection.
  
  
• Students from the school are encouraged to give a gift to the library on their birthday. This can be a new or second hand book.
  
  
• Cash donations from businesses and community members are vital as it allows resources to be purchased where there is greatest need.

The launch on Monday will be followed by a short morning tea in the Parent Room. Further details can be found on the school website and P&C Facebook page.