The Chris Tarrant Award, Terry Curran, sponsor The Oracle
If the under-fives of West Reading could collectively nominate, they would choose Terry Curran, library manager at Battle Library, said his nominator for The Chris Tarrant Award.
They added: “New immigrants and those struggling with loneliness and isolation would, I believe, gladly see him nominated too.
“Terry is extremely unassuming and deserving of special recognition for his commitment, by which over years he has come to know and serve the community’s specific needs, and particularly his close understanding of what our children deserve.”
Terry goes above and beyond pure librarianship, they added, taking a hands-on approach to support the semi-literate with urgent administrative life tasks; case letters, child custody forms, Universal Credit and job applications, and immigration forms. Even signposting to social services where necessary.
“Terry’s Rhyme Time is the highlight of my two-and-a-half year old’s week.” they said. “He is a brilliant, rare male role model for pre-schoolers and I speak to countless parents who agree.
“His twice weekly sessions each draw 50-plus children, representative of a local demographic in which 80 languages are spoken. He is supportive with even the most demanding children.
“And when another uplifting rendition of ‘Old MacDonald’ is over, and all the farmyard toys have been even-handedly distributed, children and their adults filter into the beautiful children’s library, abuzz with informative and colourful displays, invitations to craft sessions, code-breaking clubs, treasure hunts and quizzes, all masterminded by Terry,” said the nomination.
“Terry develops life-long freedom through literacy, and makes this important public space feel genuinely welcoming, safe and inclusive.”
Terry was also nominated for Community Champion sponsored by Reading Football Club.
The Chris Tarrant Award is sponsored by The Oracle shopping centre.
