A SCHEME which has given away almost 150,000 books to encourage young children to read is planning a series of events next week.
Libraries across County Durham are taking part in the annual Bookstart project, with more than 30 events aimed at children under the age of five taking place at venues across the county next week.
Free Bookstart packs worth £20 will be given to families through health visitors, Sure Start centres and nurseries, while MPs Helen Goodman and John Cummings will be attending events in their constituencies.
County Durham Bookstart Co-ordinator Patricia Brown said: "Sharing books helps to build language skills, nurtures a long-lasting enjoyment of books and gives children a head start with their reading in preparation for school.
"Since 1999, County Durham Bookstart has given away 149,000 books to babies and toddlers and over the next year we expect to give away a further 33,000 or so."
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