TIME TO READ

Reader Development is priority at Blackburn with Darwen

For more information on Blackburn with Darwen library visit www.blackburn.gov.uk/libraries

Photo: Blackburn Library - Quick Choice

Blackburn with Darwen may only be a small authority with 5 static libraries and a mobile library but there is always plenty of reading activity going on.

We have 6 different reading clubs for adults, some of which meet in libraries but others meet in a pub and in a Community Centre. We also have 5 reading clubs for children and two family reading groups under the banner of Premier League Reading Stars. The Books on the Edge project, funded by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation works with vulnerable and homeless young adults to promote literacy and reading for fun. Working in partnership with 3 external agencies, new collections of resources have been purchased by young people for use in agency venues and a wide range of activities designed to spark an interest in reading have been planned and delivered. A programme of staff training is being undertaken and barriers to using the library are being removed. .

An exciting new development in the Central Library is the creation of 'The Curve', an area where young people can relax, have a snack, watch tv, play games or browse the new selection of books purchased for their use. We also regularly hold one-off book events for both adults and children, linking in to national and local promotions.

Our website has pages dedicated to reading with details of all activities and current promotions, staff and reader recommendations, a selection of new additions and links to a wide variety of reading websites. The site is interactive and readers can check the catalogue, renew and reserve books and contact library staff with their comments. The site can be found at www.blackburn.gov.uk/libraries

We are currently undertaking a new venture in the provision of ebooks and digital audio books for loan by readers. Hand held ebook devices can be loaned with a selection of books ready loaded. We can also provide laptops holding digital audio books to the housebound.

For more information on Blackburn with Darwen library visit
www.blackburn.gov.uk/libraries or contact:
Geraldine Wilson
Blackburn Central Library
Town Hall Street
Blackburn
BB2 1A
tel: 01254 661221
email: geraldine.Wilson@blackburn.gov.uk

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For further information, comments or suggestions, please contact Jane Mathieson, the Regional Reader Development Co-ordinator, NW on 0161 236 4451 or Email - nwreader@libraries.manchester.gov.uk

Librarians in the North West have pioneered partnership working to encourage new readers into libraries. Time To Read is a partnership of librarians, literature development workers and other organisations engaged in reader development activity in public library authorities in the North West Region. All 22 public library authorities in the region are involved.

Time To Read currently has a full time paid co-ordinator, supported by Arts Coucil of England and Museums, Libraries and Archives, North West.

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