Every year a picture book written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres and many other places around the country in an effort to promote the value of reading and literacy. After the book is read aloud at 11am the children take part in crafts and activities.

This year more than 150 children across the shire joined more than a million kids all around the country to read Alpacas with Maracas by Matt Cosgove.

Bega Library was packed to the brim as around 70 children lined up to meet alpacas Wyetta and Maca from Jandarra Alpacas. The children enjoyed interacting with the animals while handler Karen Nemec kept a close watch.

Library officer Ann Moore said it was a great day and such a great experience for the children to engage with reading. She joked that she hoped next year's book won't be about lions!

Meanwhile Bermagui Library had 35 children and special guest speakers Barry and Nerida Heseltine from Lochinglade Alpaca Stud to educate the young crowd.