National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) — now in its 20th year — is a nation-wide event that encourages children’s literacy and the value of reading. 

On 27 May at 11am participants from libraries, schools, early learning centres, bookshops and family homes will read the same book simultaneously.

This year’s book is Whitney and Britney Chicken Divas by Australian writer and illustrator Lucinda Gifford. But with public places still operating under Covid-19 restrictions, the method of reading will be slightly different for 2020. 

The Australian Library and Information Association, which facilitates NSS, states that face-to-face storytime events are unlikely to be appropriate. Instead, they encourage participants to engage with virtual readings.

Carly, Heidi, Sharon and Angela from Onkaparinga Libraries dazzle with their virtual NSS performance.

For the past two months during the lockdown, Onkaparinga Libraries have been planning a NSS event that the Fleurieu community can enjoy from home. 

Their video presentation of Whitney and Britney Chicken Divas showcases creative sets, costume design and library staff singing and dancing as they bring the characters of Gifford’s book to life. 

Ordinarily, Onkaparinga Libraries would have staged a live performance and invited children from local schools and early learning centres to attend.

Last year saw a record 1,138,000 NSS participants. This year Onkaparinga Libraries want to ensure children, teachers and parents don’t miss out, so they will bring the energy of live children’s theatre to the community’s screens.

From 11am, you can view their performance of Whitney and Britney Chicken Divas on the City of Onkaparinga’s YouTube channel.