MORE children across the county will be able to make the most of their local library, thanks to a new project launched on Friday.

Pembrokeshire County Council libraries and primary schools have joined forces to provide library cards to children in 12 local schools.

The move is part of a national initiative called ‘Every Child a Library Member’, launched in ten Welsh counties.

Launching the initiative in Milford Haven Library, Dr Rhys Jones - best known for his hit BBC series ‘Rhys to the Rescue’ and ‘Dr Rhys Jones’s Wildlife Patrol’ - said: “Libraries are such an important resource - they are a great place for children to let their imagination grow and to develop and it is vitally important that we encourage our children to read more not only to improve their literacy levels but also to help them with life skills and future opportunities.”

Dr Jones was joined at the project launch by pupils from Milford Haven Junior School, Hakin Community School and Hubberston Church in Wales VC Nursery and Primary School.

He told the pupils how his childhood animal books inspired him to travel abroad to study wild animals when he was older, and of his adventures in Kenya. His stories included many fascinating animals, and how he became friends with a local Maasai tribe.

“My career started when I was your age, and in a wonderful environment like this library,” he said.

“This place has all the information you need for you to go on your own adventures.”

Cllr Wynne Evans, the council’s Vice Chairman, spent the day with the pupils at Milford Haven library and said: “Getting the children out of school and into the library enabling them to pick their own books and hearing them discuss their favourites is wonderful.

“And if we can encourage all children to use the library it will no doubt have a beneficial effect on how they perform in the classroom too.”

Having a library card means you can borrow free books, talking books and graphic novels, get help with your homework, access e-books and e-magazines, and access the internet.

Libraries also run clubs, games and events, offer somewhere safe to meet friends, and there are friendly staff on hand to help you find what you need.

The project, funded by the Department of Culture, Sport and Tourism, supports the Welsh Government's Education Begins at Home campaign which encourages parents to make time to read with their child.

For more information please visit: www.welshlibraries.org/schools.