Library embraces multicultural spirit

Children, parents and grandparents said “ciao!” to each other at the Harvey Public Library as part of an Italian-themed story time session.

The library hosted the Italian language session to commemorate the Festa della Repubblica, Italy’s national day, which was on June 2.

Language teacher Louisa Sgambelluri sang nursery rhymes, such as Incy-wincy Spider and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, first in Italian and then in English.

She then read books to the children, such as Spot the Dog, Peppa Pig, and Mem Fox’s Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes.

Mrs Sgambelluri said learning a second language was important for many reasons.

“Exposing children to different cultures is so important because it gives them a global view,” she said.

“The research shows, the earlier we start learning a second language, the easier it is to acquire a new language later on.”

Mrs Sgambelluri praised the library for embracing the diversity that makes the Harvey community so unique.

“We’re such a multicultural community here in Harvey,” she said.

“It is great to see so many cultures coming together.”