The Premier, Lara Giddings, today joined local bookworms at the Burnie Show to encourage Tasmanians to get reading as part of the National Year of Reading.

Ms Giddings and her fellow book lovers met in the comfy kid's reading corner to launch the Tasmanian Government's 2012 show exhibit, which will be a popular destination for the 12,000 Tasmanians expected over the two days of the show.

The Premier presented Noah Slatter and Liam, Benjamin, Claire and Lucy Rostan with a collection of popular children's books that will find a home at the soon-to-be-opened Burnie Child and Family Centre.

"The books will kick start the centre's children's library, which will be available to all families, and also support new year initiatives like regular story time sessions for playgroups," Ms Giddings said.

"The aim of the National Year of Reading is to encourage parents to share books with their children every day, and to create a culture of reading in our homes."

Ms Giddings said LINC Tasmania is delivering a range of exciting and creative initiatives throughout Tasmania to celebrate reading.

Books by Tasmanian authors are being 'released' in public spaces as part of the innovative BookCrossing Tasmania project.

Stickers on the books encourage finders to 'pick me up, read me, and leave me' for the next reader, while also registering their find on www.bookcrossing.com or facebook at www.facebook.com/bookcrossingtasmania

To date, 278 books by authors including James Boyce, Judy Nunn and Melanie Milburne have been distributed and more will be released at the Burnie Show.

Ms Giddings said the Tasmanian Government would have a presence at shows around the state to inform the public about Government services, programs the initiatives.

"As well as promoting literacy, this year's exhibit showcases some fantastic work happening around water, transport and energy.

"Visitors will be able to learn about energy efficiency in their homes, picking up energy saving tips, examining their water usage and trying some of the tools that can be used to measure their energy use.

"In the road safety section, punters will be able to test their perception of a standard drink and also try out some beer goggles to see just how their abilities are affected by alcohol.

"And the Inland Fisheries Service will be explaining the new Angler Access Program and show goers will be able to sign up for a fishing licence on the spot."

Other popular features include the Tasmania Police motorbike, free apples and face painting. All activities in the family friendly exhibit are free.

"I hope Tasmanians will support their agricultural shows and also take the time to call into the Government exhibit, find out more about what's happening in their local communities and talk to our friendly staff," Ms Giddings said.

The Government exhibit will also be at the Launceston Show from 11-13 October and the Hobart Show from 24-27 October.