Public libraries across the North West will take part in a mass "rhyme time" this week to celebrate children’s literacy.

More than 50 of the story and singalong sessions will be held simultaneously across the North West this Thursday 19 June. Organisers expect over a thousand families to take part in more than 50 different libraries.

The event - dubbed the "record breaking rhyme time" - is the idea of Libraries Connected North West. The group wants to highlight the free family activities on offer in the region’s libraries and publicise the benefits of taking part.

Rhyme time sessions are designed to promote a love of reading and develop language skills. They involve songs, rhymes, stories and movement, often with an opportunity to share games, instruments and toys. Importantly, they include synchronised face-to-face songs and stories, promoting bonding and wellbeing. In a recent survey carried out by Libraries Connected, 97% of teachers said rhyme times are important for young children’s development, with 66% saying they are "very important".

The library services taking part are: Blackburn with Darwen, Blackpool, Bolton, Bury, Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Chester, Halton, Knowsley, Lancashire, Liverpool, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Sefton, St Helens, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford, Warrington, Westmorland and Furness, Wigan and Wirral.

Isobel Hunter MBE, chief executive of Libraries Connected said,

"This is such a brilliant way to showcase the value of libraries for babies and toddlers. Rhyme times are such joyous events, filling the library with songs, stories and laughter. They’re also a valuable opportunity for parents and carers to meet and make new friends at what can be a lonely and overwhelming time. And what’s more – they’re completely free!"