Launch of Hotel for Bees all booked out by Ipswich young readers
27 September 2023
Benji is scared of bees.
This Spring, children across Ipswich are invited to help Benji overcome his fears through taking part in the latest instalment of Tales and Trails at Ipswich Libraries.
Hotel for Bees, a children’s book written by Alison McLennan, was officially launched as the latest trail in the series at the Ipswich Children’s Library this morning, in a bee-themed hive of activity.
Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Fechner said Tales and Trails is a wonderful initiative designed to encourage literacy, learning and discovery.
“It was a joy to attend the launch of Hotel for Bees and witness our Children’s Library overrun with young busy bees celebrating bees and their special role in our environment,” Cr Fechner said.
“It was a bee-autiful Spring morning in Nicholas Street Precinct for Ipswich’s youngest readers with bee-themed artwork creation, play activities and braille awareness sessions.
“Free giveaways and information kept young and old entertained, and story time with the book’s author, Alison McLennan, was an especially sweet treat.”
Cr Fechner said each instalment of the Tales and Trails series showcases a different title from Stories for Little Queenslanders, with pages beautifully reproduced on large signs and spread along the nature walking trail or dedicated location in Ipswich.
“The Hotel for Bees Trail is available right now for young children to enjoy throughout Tulmur Place in Nicholas Street Precinct, wrapping up on 30 November,” Cr Fechner said.
“Tales and Trails highlights Ipswich Libraries’ strong connection to the community with each trail incorporating outdoor learning and activities related to the book theme or location.
“Children can follow the pages along the trail as they discover and learn about backyard conservation and run their fingers along the panels to discover the touch-reading technique of braille.”
Tales and Trails was developed by Ipswich Libraries and supported by multiple partners including Australian Geographic, Kids Alive, Mission Australia, Play Matters, Scouts Queensland, The Workshops Rail Museum, Nature Play, Ipswich Koala Protection Society, Raising Children Network, Ipswich Nature Centre and Ipswich City Council.
Find out more about Tales and Trails at: IpswichLibraries.com.au