YOUNG children in East Sussex are being offered a free sticker storybook to encourage them to visit county libraries.

The book, Bear’s Reading Adventure, has been produced by children’s reading charity BookTrust, following feedback from library services that more encouragement is needed to get families into libraries.

The scheme, open to youngsters aged up to five years, is running in East Sussex County Council libraries in Hampden Park, Hailsham, Heathfield, Hollington, Langney, Newhaven, Peacehaven and Rye.

The book sees youngsters follow BookTrust’s blue bear mascot on a reading adventure, helping the cuddly hero to track down 10 missing objects and earn a sticker for each missing object every time they go to the library.

When children have collected all 10 stickers they can download a certificate from www.bookstart.org.uk/bearsadventure which also contains tips for families on how they can have fun reading together every day.

Cllr Chris Dowling, East Sussex County Council lead member for community services, said: “It’s never too early to encourage children to develop a love of reading, and libraries have an important role to play.

“This scheme is all about encouraging families to take advantage of the wonderful resources available at our libraries and to share the joy of reading together.”

BookTrust created Bear’s Reading Adventure in association with publisher Igloo Books as part of a national drive to offer more chances for families to benefit from library services and to make library visits more inspiring and exciting.

The books are being given for free to any parent who registers their child aged five or under for membership at one of the participating libraries.

More information about East Sussex libraries is available online at www.eastsussex.gov.uk/libraries