As local school children pack their pencils and their books and prepare for whatever kind of looks their teachers have in store for them, the even younger set is also getting geared up for fall.
And the local libraries are opening their doors to welcome them in.
To this end, both the Parksville and Qualicum Beach libraries are preparing to greet them with their fall lineup of storytime sessions.
In Parksville, storytime starts Friday, Sept. 16, running for just half an hour, from 10:30 to 11 a.m.
Those taking part can look forward to songs, stories, rhymes and fun. The program is aimed at children aged three to five, but organizers stress that all are welcome to attend. For more information call 250-248-3841.
In Quailcum Beach meanwhile, Tot Time kicks off at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 14 and runs for half an hour. Baby Time for younger children runs from 11 to 11:30 a.m.
There is no need to register for the stories, music and fun.
For more information, call 250-752-6121.
The sessions will run until the end of the week of December 11. The programs are delivered as part of the Vancouver Island Regional Library system.