St Helens are keen to encourage people to read and read more widely
For more information on St. Helens libraries visit
83.245.106.180/CMSWEB/category.do?parent=100005&itemid=200062
Photo: Childrens area in the newly refurbished Haydock Library
St. Helens libraries are keen to encourage people to read, and to read more widely. We are also committed to supporting people with literacy problems. Recent reader development activities have included various events, including visits by local authors Alan Gibbons and Margaret Murphy. Individual libraries often mount displays on specific themes or book awards, while the stock team organizes promotions for circulation around the branches.
Neighbourhood Renewal funding has facilitated a new Reader Development project in the Parr, Town centre, and West Park areas, while a new "Right to Read" project will work with looked after children to improve literacy and promote reading. The 6 Reading Groups are active at Chester Lane, Eccleston, Newton-le-Willows, Rainhill, and Central libraries. Steps have been taken to contact Traveller families, which we hope will result in some positive reader development work. Our website is now live, and has information on the reading groups, as well as Book reviews and New Books information.
Staff training on reader development is encouraged by attendance at Readers Days and courses, and by cascading information at team briefings. Future plans include supporting World Book Day and the Summer Reading Challenge, publicizing the Orange and Man Booker Prizes, purchasing various promotions, and producing a brochure of forthcoming events.
For more information on St. Helens libraries visit
83.245.106.180/CMSWEB/category.do?parent=100005&itemid=200062
or contact:
Jane Rimmer
Eccleston Library
Broadway
Eccleston
St Helens
WA10 5PJ
tel: 01744 677 573
email: janeerimmer@sthelens.gov.uk
Time To Read currently has a full time paid co-ordinator, supported by Arts Coucil of England and Museums, Libraries and Archives, North West.