The purpose of this project-based thesis is to raise parents’ awareness of the importance of reading to a child, to inspire them to read and advertise library services in Lempäälä. The practical part of the thesis is to create a brochure for Lempäälä libraries. This thesis was commissioned by Lempäälä main library.

The research methods applied are consisted of unstructured interview and content analysis. Information about Lempäälä libraries and their activities was collected by interviewing the contact person from Lempäälä main library. The content analysis was used to analyse three brochures serving the same purpose. In addition to the contet, the visual appearance of the brochures was analysed. With the help of this approach the most effective ways to create a brochure was found.

The theoretical background of the thesis consisted of the importance and relevance of reading to a child. Furthermore it was used to examine how growth affects the language learning and reading skills. It was also examined what the role of the time spent with parents and literature in this case is. In the theoretical background the importance of active work in libraries and cooperation with child health centers was pointed out. The paper also included a description of creating the brochure. The content of the brochure is based on the theoretical background.

The brochure provides information on the benefits of reading to the growth and development of a child. The brochure contains information on both services in libraries in Lempäälä and tips for reading. It also raises awareness of how the age of the child affects the reading. The purpose of the brochure was to motivate and encourage parents to read to their children. This supports the children’s growth and inspires them to learn to read. The brochure is aimed at especially for parents of young children. Therefore the brochure will be distributed to parents at child health centers in Lempäälä.