Supporting Victorian libraries to strengthen early years literacy and family engagement

Public Libraries Victoria’s Enhancing Early Years in Libraries project supports public libraries to deliver high-quality early years programs and services that help children, parents and carers build strong foundations for learning, literacy and lifelong wellbeing.

The project brings together a suite of resources, professional development opportunities and practical tools designed to strengthen existing library programs and create a more consistent approach to early years practice across Victoria. Existing programs such as Baby Time, Toddler Time and Storytime continue, with the project focused on enhancing and supporting the excellent work already taking place in libraries.

About the project

The Enhancing Early Years in Libraries project includes four key components:

Early Years Handbook for Public Libraries (2nd Edition)

The updated handbook provides practical guidance to support the planning, delivery and evaluation of early years programs. It includes refreshed resources, updated partnerships and booklists, and new Spotlight on Practice examples that showcase effective approaches from across the sector.

Early Years Quality Indicators and Assessment Framework

The new quality indicators provide a shared understanding of what high-quality early years practice looks like in Victorian public libraries. The indicators focus on:

The accompanying assessment framework supports reflection, planning and continuous improvement.

The assessment framework is currently in development with a dedicated sector working group. More information will be available soon.

Early Years Learning Modules

A suite of online learning modules has been developed to support library staff working with families. The modules explore topics including program delivery, community partnerships, outreach and communicating early literacy messages to parents and carers.

Words Grow Minds

As part of the project, Victorian public libraries are rolling out Words Grow Minds, an evidence-based early years initiative that encourages families to talk, read, sing and play with their children every day.

Developed by Raising Literacy Australia, Words Grow Minds supports families of children aged 0-3 and provides libraries with resources, training and promotional materials to help embed key early literacy messages into existing services and interactions with families.

Why this work matters

Libraries play an important role in supporting children’s early language and literacy development. Through accessible, welcoming and free programs, public libraries connect families with books, stories, songs, play-based learning opportunities and trusted information.

The Enhancing Early Years in Libraries project strengthens the capacity of library staff to support families and promotes a consistent, evidence-informed approach to early years practice across Victoria.

Project outcomes

The project aims to:

  • Support high-quality and consistent early years programming across Victorian public libraries.
  • Increase staff confidence and capability through professional development and practical resources.
  • Strengthen libraries’ role in supporting parents and carers as their child’s first teacher.
  • Improve evaluation and reflection practices across early years programs.
  • Increase awareness of the importance of talking, reading, singing and playing in the early years.
  • Equip libraries with tools and resources to support families in their child’s early development.