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Bologna libraries’ 23–24 October toy sleepover invites children to leave a favourite stuffed toy at the library. The toys stay overnight among the shelves while staff arrange and photograph their small adventures. The following morning’s programme includes collecting the toys and reading together. [1][2]
The activity offers a familiar object as a way to explore books and libraries. It is not a children’s overnight stay or a study measuring improved reading. Several venues are already marked fully booked on the library website: families should ask their chosen library for information and availability rather than assume places remain. [1][2]
The bright side
The shared activity connects a familiar object with discovering library spaces and stories. [1][2]
One idea, in simple words
Some Bologna libraries have prepared a special night for stuffed toys. The programme on 23 and 24 October invites children to leave a favourite toy at the library. The children do not sleep there: only the toys stay overnight. Library staff arrange small scenes and document them with photographs. The following morning, the programme includes reading together and collecting the toys. Imagine your teddy bear beside a book: this could make you curious about a familiar place. That is an example of play, not proof that everyone will become a better reader. Several venues say they are fully booked. To find out about participation, families need to ask the library rather than assume that places are still available. [1][2]
A little discovery to keep
What did you discover?
Straight from the source.
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