Greek Storytime Program Launches at Northcote Library to Celebrate Cultural Heritage

Northcote, Victoria—Families gathered at Northcote Library this weekend to celebrate the launch of Greek Family Storytime, a new program for preschool-aged children of Hellenic heritage.

Hosted by PRONIA and supported by the Victorian Government, the initiative aims to foster connections with the Greek language, identity, and culture through engaging storytelling and activities.

State Member for Northcote, Kat Theophanous, joined the festivities, highlighting the significance of preserving cultural languages from an early age. "Retaining our community languages is vitally important to a thriving and diverse Victoria," she remarked. "Learning through stories, songs, and culture creates deep connections and embedded understanding."

The program, funded as part of the Victorian Labor Government’s $6 million commitment to multicultural storytelling, will run every Saturday from 10:00 am to 11:30 am during school terms. It offers children and parents opportunities to participate in fairy tales, book readings, songs, and cultural activities, alongside access to culturally appropriate information about local health services.

The launch event was marked by traditional Greek music, stories, and interactive activities that filled the library with excitement and anticipation. Children explored the joys of their cultural heritage in an atmosphere vibrant with Greek culture.

Reflecting on the broader impact of such programs, Theophanous emphasized, "Greek Storytime is about more than just reading books. It’s about preserving the Greek language and sharing Hellenic culture. Through storytelling, children can connect with their heritage, fostering a sense of identity and community."

The initiative responds to a growing demand within Victoria’s large Hellenic community for structured programs that support language and cultural heritage. By offering a structured, engaging, and free program, Greek Storytime aims to enrich language, literacy, and social-emotional skills while deepening children’s connection to their cultural identities.

"This launch is a wonderful beginning for what promises to be a meaningful and impactful program," Theophanous concluded. "I’m proud to have supported this initiative with funding from the Victorian Labor Government, ensuring that generations to come can continue to celebrate and preserve their Greek heritage."