Wiltshire Scrapstore is relaunching its popular ‘Read All About It’ story box initiative, to be available free of charge to anyone working in an early years setting. The relaunch will take place at 4pm on 4 May, with 100 project project boxes on offer, bursting with fabulous fiction and non fiction books, puppets and soft toys, all designed for children under the age of six years. Neil Griffiths, children’s author, Wiltshire Scrapstore charity patron and the inspiration behind the project, will be storytelling and book signing on the day.
“The Library Box service was originally funded by Wiltshire County Council and ran by our charity,” explained assistant director Glynis Cosgrave. “After funding was stopped, we continued to run this much needed and worthwhile service ourselves. Over time, we recognised that our story boxes needed greatly updating. As a charity, we did not have the funds to completely revise these much needed boxes. Neil kindly offered to do this for us, therefore ensuring children will still have access to this valuable service.
“While the service was suspended during Covid, we have now decided the time is right to relaunch these inspirational boxes to everyone.”
Each of the boxed is bursting with themed fiction and non-fiction books, puppets and soft toys, which will bring the books to life and reinforce the joy of reading. The subjects include superheroes, pirates, wild animals, dragons, fairies and unicorns, along with Scrappy Bear who will encourage children to read and look after the books whilst in their care.
As added bonuses, some boxes will contain a special, signed book wrapped in golden paper, which the children can keep. There will also be a Golden Star in other boxes and the lucky recipients will win a magical storytelling session with Neil.
“Every box is listed on our website www.wiltshirescrapstore.org.uk,” added Glynis. “All you have to do is go online, book the box, then collect it from Wiltshire Scrapstore in Lacock.
“Each box can be borrowed free of charge, to people who work with children and will be available to schools, community groups, pre schools, childminders and children in care. The boxes are designed for children aged six years and younger.”