Preschool Story Time at Panania Library is a welcoming, hands-on session designed to introduce young children to books, songs and early literacy in a friendly community setting. Parents and carers can expect a relaxed hour of storytelling that sparks curiosity and a love of reading while providing a chance to connect with other families and local library resources.
What to Expect
Sessions are lively and interactive, combining picture books, rhymes, action songs and simple group activities to engage children aged 2 to 5 and support early language development. The tone is playful and encouraging, created to help shy children feel comfortable and excited about books and reading.
Parents will find practical benefits as well as fun: ideas to extend stories at home, tips for reading routines and opportunities to borrow books from the Panania Library collection. The session supports literacy, listening skills and social play in a safe library environment.
You may want to bring a small comfort item for younger children and a reusable water bottle for warm days. Practical items to consider:
- A small blanket or mat if your child prefers sitting on the floor
- A spare nappy/wipes for little ones
- Library membership or bag for borrowing books
Activity Details
Preschool Story Time runs Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11:00 to 12:00, during school term only. Sessions are presented in English and are designed for families with children aged 2 to 5 years, although older siblings are welcome when space allows.
Bookings are required and open from 9:30am on the day. Sessions are open to individual families, and special group bookings for preschools, long day care or family day care are welcomed by appointment, which is good to know for daycare organisers and parent groups.
Each session focuses on a short program of stories and songs with simple activities to encourage participation. Library staff encourage borrowing related titles afterwards so storytime leads naturally into shared reading at home.
Location and Access
The sessions take place at Panania Library and Knowledge Centre, Cnr Tower Street & Anderson Ave, Panania 2213. The library is a community hub with clear signage and a welcoming children's area for families.
There is street parking nearby and local public transport links to the Panania area. Parents should allow a little extra time to find parking during busy periods and to settle children before the session begins.
The library aims to be accessible to families with prams and mobility needs; if you have specific access requirements, contact the library ahead of your visit so staff can assist you on arrival.
Important Information
Preschool Story Time is free of charge, but spaces can be limited so booking early on the day helps secure a spot. Sessions run only during school terms, so check the library calendar before planning a trip in school holidays.
These sessions are primarily for individual family attendance; however, group visits from early childhood services are welcome by appointment. Sessions are designed to be inclusive and supportive of early literacy for all children.
If your child is unwell, please stay home and consider borrowing books online or using the library's eResources. The library follows standard health and safety guidelines and appreciates families' cooperation to keep everyone comfortable.
Booking and Prices
The program is free. Bookings are taken from 9:30am on the day by contacting Panania Library or visiting the library in person. Telephone bookings are accepted, and same-day availability is often limited, so arrive early if bookings are full.
For special group bookings or preschool visits, contact the library team to arrange a suitable time and discuss group sizes and program content. The friendly library staff can also suggest reading lists and follow-up activities for parents.
Parents are encouraged to bring library cards if they wish to borrow books after the session, and to check the council library calendar online for term dates, session cancellations or special events related to early years literacy and family programs.