By PETER ROWE

An innovative literacy program in regional Western Australia has received a commendation at the State Library of Western Australia’s 2024 Library Board Awards for innovation and collaboration.

Outdoor Storytime Under The Yarning Tree has grown out of a partnership between the Julyardi Aboriginal Corporation and Wangka Maya and mixes interactive storytelling and creative play to encourage reading in young children.

Outdoor Storytime is now a much-loved event at South Hedland Library to celebrate literacy, and all the befits that can give both children and their parents and siblings.

The program is held once a month at the library with sessions featuring guest readers from the community.

“It was fantastic for Hedland Libraries to be recognised for the program,” Mayor Mr Carter told the North West Telegraph.

“The town is committed to fostering opportunities to improve access to literacy in the community and support the development of children.”