Kerry children starting school this year can now collect their free My Little Library book bags from their local library.
The bag is filled with books and tools to help ease their transition to primary school this September.
All children aged 4, 5, and 6 years who are starting school in 2025, along with their parents or guardians are eligible.
110,000 free books will be available nationally and they are available in both English and Irish.
It's intended to help children prepare emotionally and socially for school, encourage a love of reading and library use, and support families.
Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley and Senator Mike Kennelly have welcomed the initiative.
The book bag includes a book about starting school, one about making friends and being yourself, the Rufus Handwashing Storybook, a library card and a special My Little Library cardholder.
The initiative is part of the First 5 Strategy and is a collaboration between public libraries, the Department of Rural and Community Development, and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.
