Local libraries offer a fabulous resource, but at a time of severe funding cuts, there's every danger that your local library may be targeted for closure.  When evaluating the value of local services, local authorities will look at how well utilised their services are.  If you want to keep your local library open, then make sure you are using it and are appearing on the local radar!

• Make sure you and your children are enrolled so that you are counted when the council investigate how many people use the library
• Make sure that you borrow books regularly to help contribute to healthy lending rates
• Attend special events laid on for children during half terms and holidays
• If your library doesn't hold craft days or readings, see if you can help organise some during holiday periods
• If your library has a cafe or toddler group, make sure you use them, even if only occasionally
• Spend time in your library with your children, take them in and read to them in the library

Local libraries offer all sorts of services in addition to simply lending books.  It would be a shame to lose these facilities, yet they can only be justified if they are being used.  Make sure that you use your library with your children, and help local authorities justify keeping libraries open so that your children's children can one day enjoy them too!

World Book Day 2010 falls on Thusday, 4th March (in the UK) and events all over the country are already underway to embrace and celebrate reading, why not attend an event in your area?  The World Book Day website has a list of events largely focused on public libraries.  If your children don't already borrow books from your library, then this offers the perfect opportunity to join up and introduce your children to the wonders of books!

World Book Day was designated by UNESCO as a worldwide celebration of books and reading.  In the UK events are organised by a charity with financial backing from National Book Tokens, publishers and booksellers.  The aim is to encourage children to explore the pleasures of reading and encourage book ownership.  World Book Day is celebrated in over 100 countries, although most countries celebrate it on St. George's Day (April 23rd).

Even if there aren't any events local to you, you can always organsie your own World Book Day event in your own home!  Why not dress your children as characters from their favourite books and have a special reading in the afternoon where you read their favourite books to them?  Visit the shops and let them choose a new book to buy, or arrange with friends to lend your favourite stories to each other so that you can share the delights of your own library!

If you're looking for a cheap day out with your toddlers, why not take a trek to your local library?  Enroll yor children and see what fun stuff is available.  Not only a world of fantastic books awaits, but there will probably be a selection of children's music, spoken word story CD's plus all sorts of fun films.  Ask you child to choose what film they fancy and go home with some popcorn to watch it together!  Some libraries even have toys, games and puzzles to borrow so you can try out new games before you buy them!  Watch out for special events they may hold during the holidays, like visits from authors, story readings and other group activities they might be organizing.  Remember, it's mostly free!