Tiny Little Library launches at Wexford General Hospital

By Dan Walsh

The Tiny Little Library at the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) in Wexford General Hospital has been launched bringing the power of stories, language, and connection to some of the county’s smallest and most vulnerable babies.

Tiny Little Library is an innovative partnership between Wexford Library Service and the neonatal team at Wexford General Hospital.

The initiative provides a collection of carefully selected books that parents can read aloud to their premature and hospitalised babies, helping families bond during what can be a challenging and emotional time.

The Tiny Little Library collection in Wexford SCBU will give families access to specially chosen books designed to be read aloud, creating opportunities for comfort, connection and communication from the earliest days of life.

The initiative also links families with their local public library, ensuring continued access to books, resources and support after their baby returns home.

Cathaoirleach Cllr. Lisa McDonald said: “Tiny Little Library provides a simple but powerful way for parents to spend time with their baby, using their voice, stories and books to nurture connection, comfort and development. We are delighted to work with Wexford General Hospital SCBU on this worthwhile initiative.”

Yvonne Smith, Senior Executive Librarian said: “A love of reading starts with a shared story. We are proud to support families in the SCBU with this Tiny Little Library, where every book opens a world of possibilities. This Tiny Little Library is a celebration of reading, family, and the power of books to comfort, inspire, and connect us.”

Caroline Manley, SCBU, Wexford General Hospital said: “Every interaction matters for babies in neonatal care. Reading aloud gives parents a meaningful role in their baby’s care journey while supporting early communication and bonding. We are delighted to partner with Wexford Library Service on this important initiative.”

Tiny Little Library builds on successful programmes already operating in some neonatal units around Ireland as a partnership with hospitals and public libraries to support families from the very start of their child’s life through books, language and relationships.