From storytelling and craft sessions to Lego® clubs, coding activities and reading groups, this is something for all ages to enjoy at Walsall’s seven community libraries and Lichfield Street Hub. Residents can also take part in two key summer initiatives designed to support children’s learning and development during the school holidays.
“ Walsall’s seven community libraries are much more than just a place to borrow books. They also provide welcoming community spaces where residents can learn new skills, explore their creativity and connect with others.
Councillor Matthew Eason, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing
"This summer, we are offering a fantastic range of free activities for absolutely everyone to get involved with, there really is something for every age and ability. Whether you're taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge, joining a craft session or simply discovering your next favourite book, there's something for everyone at Walsall Libraries. “
Walsall Council
The popular Summer Reading Challenge returns from Saturday 4 July to Wednesday 30 September and is free for children aged four to 11.
Delivered by The Reading Agency in partnership with public libraries, this year's theme, Read to the Beat, celebrates the connection between stories and music, encouraging children to read six or more library books over the summer while building confidence and maintaining reading skills.
The challenge will be available at all Walsall Council-run libraries.
The Ready to Learn Passport initiative, delivered by Walsall Council’s Family Hubs team, is also returning after supporting more than 500 children across the borough last summer.
Aimed at babies and children aged five and under, the passport includes a range of fun activities and challenges designed to support early learning and development and help children prepare for nursery or primary school. Many of the activities can be completed at local libraries.
To find out more, visit the Family Hubs website or email the team: familyhubs@walsall.gov.uk
Throughout the summer holidays, libraries across Walsall will host a wide range of free activities, including:
Some activities require advance booking. Residents should contact their local library for details.
For library opening times and more information, visit the Walsall Libraries' webpages.
A full programme of summer activities is available from Walsall Libraries.
ENDS
Walsall has seven community libraries, an archives service at Lichfield Street Hub, and a mobile library service:
For more information on Walsall’s community libraries, please visit: go.walsall.gov.uk/walsall-libraries
The Summer Reading Challenge has been running since 1999 and inspires a passion for reading outside the classroom. With the help of local libraries, the Summer Reading Challenge is accessible to all and provides a fun, free activity for children. The Challenge has successfully engaged over half a million children annually for more than 25 years.
The Summer Reading Challenge is developed by The Reading Agency, delivered in partnership with public libraries, and funded by Arts Council England.
The Reading Agency is a UK charity that inspires social and personal change through the proven power of reading.
The Reading Agency reaches over two million people a year but with a UK population of over 67 million that's not nearly enough. It aims to get more people fired up about reading because everything changes when you read.
