The joy of reading can be one of the most important gifts a parent can give a child and Arrow Energy is helping the State Library of Queensland to spread the word.
Queensland Minister for Science, Information Technology, Innovation and the Arts, Ian Walker, announced in Brisbane last night a partnership between Arrow and the State Library to bring multi-literacy programs to the Western Downs region.
The partnership helps make up more than $4 million Arrow has invested in communities through its Brighter Futures initiative this year and will feature two key programs: Creative Community Computing and Dads Read.
Creative Community Computing workshops will build on Western Downs Libraries’ existing digital literacy programs by bringing in experts to teach young people how to rebuild computers.
Families will be encouraged to gather at the opening of the revamped Dalby Library in March to participate in the Dads Read event, which provides fathers with tips and tools to help them read with their children.
Mr Walker congratulated Arrow Energy and the State Library.
“This is an invaluable partnership that will deliver an innovative and accessible multi-literacy program to children, young people and families in the Western Downs region,” Mr Walker said.
“I hope the success of this partnership inspires more of its kind across the state.”
Arrow CEO Andrew Faulkner said many Queensland fathers struggled to find the time to read with their children but the benefits spoke for themselves.
“Arrow’s workforce includes many fathers who work on projects away from home and I know its difficult for them to fit in quality time reading with their children,” Mr Faulkner said.
“This program encourages fathers such as those who work for Arrow to make that time, whether in person or using the vast array of technology available.
“Research has shown children who are read to by their fathers for just 10 minutes a day demonstrate increased cognitive abilities, high self-esteem and greater social competence.
“As an active member of our communities, Arrow recognises the need to improve the learning opportunities of all residents and is excited to be partnering with respected organisations such as the State Library of Queensland and Western Downs Libraries.”
State Library of Queensland CEO and State Librarian Janette Wright said libraries acted as a hub where community members could come together for social activities, pursue personal interests and continue on their path of lifelong learning.
“Literacy today has broadened in scope – it’s multimodal, tied to technology and culture, and literacy begins at home from an early age,” she said.
“Community-centred, collaborative initiatives like this one are accessible to everyone, encourage lifelong learning, and benefit the entire community.
“We appreciate Arrow’s support for these locally-led literacy initiatives.”
Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson for Cultural Development and Health Services, Councillor Carolyn Tillman, said in a fast-paced technology-focused world it was important to remember literacy was multi-faceted and begins in the home.
“It’s encouraging to see a resource company that plays a big role in the Western Downs getting involved in developing digital and reading ability for individuals and families which can only benefit communities,” Cr Tillman said.
“We’re excited to continue building on our digital literacy programs with the joint Creative Community Computing initiative and on our range of engaging community events with the Dads Read event.”
The launch also celebrated Arrow’s existing partnerships with organisations such as the Brisbane Broncos, the Endeavour Foundation and the Surat Basin Gas Industry Aeromedical Service.
The Dads Read event will take place in March at the Dalby Library, coinciding with its opening after a 12-month redevelopment.
Creative Community Computing workshops began this week in Miles focusing on high school students. In 2014, sessions in Dalby will be aimed at those wanting to get into or return to the workforce.