Listen up! No matter what you might have heard, listening to audiobooks absolutely counts as reading.
The storytelling tradition goes back thousands of years - so listening to stories is far from a new phenomenon. And a child that listens to stories is engaging with stories, just as they do when they're reading the words on the page.
We’re here to help you and your children Go All In for the National Year of Reading. So let's dive into the world of audiobooks, and discover just how easy it is to start listening through the Library.
Reading for pleasure is really important - there's no doubt about that. But if anything, listening to an audiobook adds an extra layer.
Listening to stories has been proven to boost pronunciation and comprehension skills, espescially for children. What's more, it can remove barriers for reluctant readers - or those who struggle to read - helping them to engage with stories in the way that's right for them.
We all remember story time when we were children. Listening to someone read is really exciting, and really enjoyable. It's a shame that many of us stop doing this when we grow up! But audiobooks, in their many forms, are like a story time you can carry aroudn with you - you can listen in the car, on the beach, while doing chores at home, or wherever you like!
AUDIOBOOKS FOR CHILDREN
So, how can you access audiobooks for your little ones here at the Library?
The latest additions to the Children's Library collection are our new Yoto cards. This exciting selection of audio stories can be borrowed in exactly the same way as books – if you've got a Yoto player at home, just slot in the card and voila, instant story time! From sport biographies to Julia Donaldson classics, there’s something for every young reader.
If you don’t have a Yoto player, don’t panic! We have devices available to loan too, so please get in touch to find out how you can borrow one.
Although they are used less nowadays, we mustn’t forget the technology of “olden times” (an actual recent quote from a young Library user…) - the humble CD. The Children’s Library has a wide range of audiobooks on CD, available to borrow with your Library card. We often hear that these can be an absolute lifesaver on long car journeys, or equally on short car journeys here on-island.
Another way your little ones can get involved with audiobooks here at the Library, is by using our Voxblock. Tucked away in a cosy nook of the Children’s Library, our Voxblock is a screenless device that plays stories; simply pick a story from our collection, pop it in the player, and it’s ready to go! It’s a lovely activity for younger listeners to use independently, and a great opportunity for them to enjoy some quiet time while in the Library.
And don't forget about story time! Join us for Family Stories in the Children’s Library every Saturday at 11am. There’s no need to book, just drop in and enjoy some hilarious and/or adorable stories - all ages welcome! Find our latest Family Stories sessions and other upcoming events below:
If you’re curious to find out more about the benefits of listening to audiobooks, check out this blog from the National Literacy Trust, or this one from Penguin.