Rideau Lakes Public Library is Hosting a FREE Dinner in celebration of Family Literacy Day, January 27th

Rideau Lakes Public Library is Hosting a FREE Dinner in celebration of Family Literacy Day, January 27th

Family Literacy Day is an annual event celebrated at all libraries across Canada, “to raise awareness about the importance of reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family.” Promoted through ABC Life Literacy Canada (abclifeliteracy.ca), libraries, schools, literacy-focused organizations and community groups have participated in this worthy initiative since 1999.

This year’s theme is “Make mealtime family learning time,” and Rideau Lakes Public Library (RLPL) is embracing this theme by hosting a free community dinner at Elgin Hall on Tuesday, Jan. 27, starting at 5 p.m. The dinner is a fun Taco Tuesday, with family trivia sheets available if you wish. To make the evening even more special, the library staff have arranged for “Award-winning singer/songwriter David Archibald to join in the fun and lead everyone in some fun sing-alongs,” says Mady MacLeod, Manager of Community Outreach and Programs at RLPL.

Mady says this is an event that is close to her heart, “ as it celebrates both old and young readers, and encourages the lifelong love of reading. Plus, community dinners are just so wonderful!” The dinner will have gluten-free options available, along with juice, coffee, tea and a yummy dessert.

Families will be able to fill out the fun family trivia sheets together, answering questions suitable for all ages. Answers will then be announced, and families who get close to all of them correct will be awarded a small prize.

A free book table will be available along with some colouring sheets and a convenient baby corner for “the squirmy wee ones,” to help keep everyone amused. The sing-along with David Archibald after the meal is sure to entertain little and old alike.

Those wanting to take part in the fun Family Literacy Day event are asked to register at rideaulakeslibrary.ca/family-literacy-day-2/. You can also call 613-359-5334 for more information.

Interestingly, Mady recalls attending a similar event when she and her family first moved to the area. She still remembers the warm and welcoming atmosphere it provided for her and her family, stating, “This is the true joy of living in our rural communities,” referring to the camaraderie felt when gathering together to celebrate events such as the Family Literacy Day dinner.