Newborn babies in Cornwall offered library cards

Cornwall Council said the My First Library Card could encourage a lifetime of reading

Library cards are being offered to parents in Cornwall when they register the birth of their baby, officials have said.

Cornwall Council said the My First Library Card scheme would help encourage a "lifetime love of reading".

It said parents would be able to use the card to sign up to their local library, which offered a selection of books for baby's first years and beyond.

The council said getting children engaged with books and reading from an early age had "many benefits".

"It can help with brain development, build imagination and support language skills," the council said.

"Library cards are not just for babies. they’re great for parents too.

"A library card can help parents find books on every aspect of bringing up a little one, and access to online resources such as e-audiobooks and e-magazines."

Council cabinet portfolio holder for neighbourhoods Carol Mould said the card was "more than a card", adding it was a "ticket to a world of knowledge and fun".

She said: “Cornwall Libraries are safe and welcoming places, where families can spend time together and, by giving every child a library card, we’re helping to create a community of happy readers and learners."

The council said once parents had registered the birth, they could collect the cards from their local library.

It added all of Cornwall’s libraries were "fine-free" and there were no overdue item charges.