Mapo-gu Operates 'Bookstart Story Time with Music'

Safe Anytime, Anywhere... Wise Parenting Tips in the COVID Era... A Rich Time Enjoying Picture Books and Music Online with the Whole Family

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Jong-il] Mapo-gu (Mayor Yoo Dong-gyun) has produced a video program called ‘Bookstart Story Time with Music,’ which combines high-quality Bookstart picture books and music, and is offering it for free through Naver Band until January 31 next year.

Hosted by Seoul Library, implemented by Mapo-gu Public Library, and sponsored by Bookstart Korea, this program is a linked project of the ‘2020 Mapo-gu Seoul-type Bookstart.’ It was prepared for preschool children and their families who spend more time at home and cannot attend face-to-face classes due to the prolonged COVID-19 situation.

The program consists of a total of five videos, each about 20 minutes long, selecting music inspired by elements such as rhythm, color, and melody felt in the picture books, and introducing musical concepts together.

The picture books to be read together include Saehayan Goyangi (Saehayan Cat) (written and illustrated by Sua-hyun), Jabara Jabara (Catch Catch) (written and illustrated by Baek Ju-hee), Momomomomo (written and illustrated by Bamko), Ddak Maj-a (Just Right) (written and illustrated by Song Sun-ok), and Susanghae (Suspicious) (written and illustrated by Seutkai).

The program is conducted by CLAP, which has been running various arts play education contents centered on music and picture books, as well as family-type picture book concerts.

Through the time spent deeply immersed in the picture books along with beautiful music, children will approach books more three-dimensionally, become more engaged, and have the experience of remembering them for a long time.

A participant using the ID ‘OO Appa’ (OO Dad) gave positive feedback, saying, “The ideas and production are very fresh and highly addictive. I drew pictures and danced the waltz with my child.”

Applications to participate in ‘Bookstart Story Time with Music’ can be made through the Mapo Central Library website, and applicants can access the program after receiving an invitation to Naver Band from the library staff.

For more details, please refer to the library website homepage or contact the Mapo Central Library Operations Team by phone.

Yoo Dong-gyun, Mayor of Mapo-gu, said, “These days, when outings and cultural activities are greatly restricted due to COVID-19, I hope families overcome the COVID blues together through arts content centered on music and picture books.”