2012 is the National Year of Reading

It’s the National Year of Reading in Australia in 2012.

Many events and activities are planned around the country during the year, starting with the  official launch by the Premier of Victoria, the Hon. Ted Baillieu, MP at the State Library of Victoria on Tuesday 14 February 9:30am – 1:00pm. Book by February 7.

National Year of Reading ambassador, author and demographer Bernard Salt will issue the call for action with a lively presentation on why literacy is vital for society, and reading promotion expert Henk Kraima (Netherlands) will provide inspiration and ideas on building a culture of reading.

Then on Sunday 19 February 11am – 1:00pm there will be a special literary tea party hosted by the Mad Hatter. Dress up as your favourite book character and join the Mad Hatter in the Library’s Queen’s Hall for a glorious celebration of books and reading.

Tickets to this free family event will be offered through the State Library of Victoria’s Library’s Facebook page and Twitter feed.