There was story-telling magic, face painting and reading galore as Surrey Libraries kicked off a month-long celebration of family literacy activities at the Guildford Town Centre today.

On behalf of the B.C. government and Education Minister Peter Fassbender, Surrey-Tynehead MLA Amrik Virk and Surrey-Cloverdale MLA Stephanie Cadieux joined Mayor Dianne Watts, families, kids of all ages, performers, donors and library representatives to officially proclaim this coming Monday, Jan. 27, 2014, as Family Literacy Day in British Columbia.

Among the highlights of today's event was the launch of the Surrey Libraries' new "Read to Baby" program for vulnerable families. Funded by private donors, this program responds to the need for early literacy programs and services in the Surrey community. As well, children's performer Charlotte Diamond sang some of her crowd-pleasing tunes, much to the delight of young fans.

Family Literacy Day is the largest national family literacy initiative in Canada. Every year on Jan. 27, and during the week leading up to it - families and communities across the country and throughout B.C. celebrate this special day at literacy-themed events co-ordinated by public libraries, literacy organizations, schools and families.

Quotes:

Peter Fassbender, Minister of Education -

"The importance of literacy cannot be underestimated. As we celebrate Family Literacy Day in B.C., it's important to remember that parents are a child's first teachers. Promoting early literacy in the home is one of the keys to success in later life."

Amrik Virk, MLA Surrey Tynehead -

"To help develop a love of reading in their children, we encourage parents, families and caregivers throughout the province to explore the many excellent programs offered through their local libraries."

Stephanie Cadieux, MLA, Surrey-Cloverdale -

"I want to thank everyone here today who helps support early literacy in our libraries, schools and homes. Our thanks to all librarians for their knowledge and enthusiasm and the important work they do for communities throughout B.C."

Linda Stromberg, chair, Surrey Libraries Board -

"Literacy is at the heart of Surrey Libraries' mission and a priority in our "Learning for Life" strategy. We are very excited to be launching our new Read to Baby program in celebration of Family Literacy Day."

Quick Facts:

• Family Literacy Day is a national awareness initiative created in 1999 by ABC Life Literacy Canada. In 2000, the B.C. government first proclaimed Jan. 27 as Family Literacy Day.
• Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested more than $1.5 billion in literacy and literacy-related initiatives to support preschool-aged children, K-12 students and adult learners.

Learn More:

To find a public library near you, visit: http://www.bclibraries.ca/home/bc-libraries

What's new at the Surrey Libraries, visit: www.surreylibraries.ca

To learn about BC's Education Plan, visit: www.bcedplan.ca

Media Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Education
250 356-5963