The Bookstart Euskadi-Gipuzkoa project is entering its fourth year, dedicated to cultivating a love for reading among the youngest children in Gipuzkoa. This initiative, a collaboration between the Department of Culture and Cooperation and the Mestiza Association, aims to distribute 1,000 'Liburupacks' to children aged 0-3 and up to five years old in smaller communities. This year, the program has expanded to include nine municipalities, reinforcing its commitment to fostering a passion for literature from an early age.
Operating under the slogan 'Read, talk, sing, and play,' Bookstart champions a holistic approach to integrating reading into daily family life through playful and accessible methods. The program's expansion to include Ataun, Idiazabal, and Legorreta signifies a deliberate effort to extend its benefits into rural areas with fewer existing cultural resources. Each 'Liburupack' contains books in Basque, Spanish, and English, along with resources for families on the benefits of early childhood literacy, including rhymes and songs. A QR code within the pack provides access to the 'Liburu Baby Kluba' calendar, featuring free reading sessions and educational activities hosted in public libraries. Specially adapted packs are also provided for children with special needs, ensuring universal accessibility to culture.
Drawing inspiration from a British early childhood reading program established in 1992, Bookstart Euskadi-Gipuzkoa is an integral part of the European EURead consortium, which unites reading promotion organizations from 28 European countries to exchange knowledge and develop strategies for encouraging reading. The distribution of 'Liburupacks' is facilitated through invitations for collection at municipal libraries or local preschools. This project underscores Gipuzkoa's dedication to culture, education, and equality, nurturing a lifelong appreciation for books and contributing to a more discerning, diverse, and unified society.
Research consistently highlights that early exposure to language and literature significantly enhances cognitive abilities, including problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. Furthermore, multilingual education, as incorporated into the 'Liburupacks,' has been shown to improve language skills, foster cultural awareness, and promote a positive attitude towards language learning. These foundational skills are crucial for academic success and overall development, preparing children for a future where adaptability and a broad understanding of the world are paramount. Community engagement, through programs involving families and local institutions like libraries and preschools, creates a supportive ecosystem for learning, reinforcing literacy as a shared community value.