National Simultaneous Storytime 2025

📚 One Book. One Nation. One Magical Moment for Little Readers 📚

National Simultaneous Storytime 2025

If you’ve ever wished for a moment of nationwide connection — something joyful, wholesome, and perfect for little ones — this is it.

National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) is back for 2025, and it’s the kind of event we absolutely love here at Inner West Mums. Every year, children across Australia gather in libraries, schools, preschools, and living rooms to read the same book at the same time — creating a magical, collective moment of storytelling that celebrates books, literacy, and community.

This year’s pick? The delightful The Truck Cat by Deborah Frenkel and illustrated by Danny Snell — a sweet and quirky tale that’s sure to capture the hearts of toddlers and preschoolers (and grown-ups too).

📖 Join the Celebration!

Head to your local library and be part of this nationwide reading event. The session kicks off with a group reading and wraps up with a fun craft activity that little hands will love. And yes — every child will receive a free copy of the book to take home!

🗓 Wednesday, 22 May
🕦 Arrive at 11:30am for a 12pm reading
📍 Choose from these locations:

Surry Hills Library
Newtown Library
Darling Square Library
Kings Cross Library
Customs House Library

✨ Suitable for ages 2–5 and their carers
🎨 Craft fun and a free book for every child
📚 Hosted by your friendly local library team
🎟 Bookings are preferred as places are limited

Can’t make it in person? No worries — you can also join in online and be part of the nationwide read-along from home.

About Author

Francesca Millena

Writer, foodie and ideas-sponge, Francesca grew up in the Inner West and loves writing about all things IW related from playgrounds and podcasts, restaurants and retail, bubble tea and basketball courts. Mum to an active child, she also knows a thing or two about keeping a little one entertained on a rainy day.

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