Mamma Lingua: multilingual storytime for children at Modena libraries

Mamma Lingua: multilingual storytime for young children

Modena’s public libraries are hosting Mamma Lingua, a programme designed to introduce children and families to books and stories in Italian and other community languages. Through rhymes, tales and lullabies, the initiative supports social connection, inclusion and early literacy.

Who it’s for and why

The events are aimed at children aged 3 to 6 years and their families. The sessions highlight the value of the mother tongue, encourage shared reading habits and create opportunities for intercultural encounters.

Schedule (dates and venues)

• Tuesday 7 April, 5:00 PM – Biblioteca Delfini
• Saturday 11 April, 10:00 AM – Biblioteca Rotonda
• Friday 17 April, 5:00 PM – Biblioteca Giardino
• Thursday 23 April, 5:00 PM – Biblioteca Delfini
• Saturday 16 May – closing show “Thioro, a Senegalese Little Red Riding Hood” in the cloister of Biblioteca Delfini by Kër Theatre Mandiaye N’Diaye

Partners and available resources

The project involves volunteers and local organisations active with families and children, including groups linked to Nati per Leggere, the Villaggio per crescere at Portobello and the association Differenza Maternità. The libraries hold children’s books in about 14 languages (for example Albanian, Arabic, Chinese and Urdu), available in the youth sections.

Practical information

• Participation: reservation required at the participating libraries.
• Target audience: children aged 3–6 and their families.
• Purpose: to promote shared reading and to celebrate linguistic diversity.

Contact the chosen library for booking details and availability. These events are a practical opportunity to bring books closer to young children and to nurture the value of multilingual storytelling within the community.