The wonderful world of imagination, stories and literature with Leeds Libraries
Our city’s libraries are fantastic places for families to spend time together, and for children to explore the world of books and the joys of reading. In Leeds, children can be signed up for a library card as soon as they are born, and it’s free to join, borrow books and come along to family events and activities.
This half term you can find our colourful Story Buses Sam and Nelly out and about for loads of free family fun! Packed with brilliant board books, perfect picture books and terrific toys just for the under-5’s. Join us for super Story and Rhyme sessions and creative craft activities.
Are you looking for half term activities later this month, why not go along to Leeds Central Library on Saturday 26th February for a day of free activities for children of all ages. It’s the first day of Leeds Lit Fest, which is back for 2022 with live events. Kids can come along and hear from amazing authors, have a go at crafting, enjoy captivating storytelling sessions and listen to writers talking about their books. With events for pre-school children all the way up to young adults, it’s the perfect way to round off the spring half term break.
Highlights of the day include:
- Steve Cole, the author of Young Bond, Dr Who novels and the hugely popular Astrosaurs series of books, will be at Leeds Central Library to talk about his thrilling short stories with an environmental theme at their heart. Expect a session packed with action and adventure, and ask Steve about his ideas and inspiration;
- Younger book lovers will enjoy this free session with author Maudie Smith, who writes colourful picture books filled with engaging characters and adventures. Children will be able to meet Maudie, who will be reading from her book Must Have Mum, and colour in pictures from the story;
- Andy Mulligan’s novel for young adults, Trash, has been turned into a feature film. Andy will be talking about his inspiration for the book, which is about three boys growing up on a dumpsite, and afterwards there will be a screening of the film, and
- Join writers Gill Lewis and Hannah Gold as they discuss what makes a good animal story for children. Both authors have both taken inspiration from the natural world and wildlife for their children’s books. Join them in conversation and ask your questions at this free event at Leeds Central Library.
All the events are free but we’re asking people to book places beforehand.
Find out more at Leeds Lit Fest 2022 | Leeds Inspired
All our libraries have pictures books, novels, poetry and non-fiction for children of all ages, and pre-school youngsters – we call them our Ready Steady Readers – are always more than welcome. Being in the library can be a great way for toddlers and babies to develop their communication skills and give them a flying start in life. You can also meet other parents and carers, and spend quality time with your children.
But there’s much more on offer than books to borrow. Our libraries also offer Story and Rhyme sessions. These sessions introduce children to the world of stories and rhymes, helping them develop early speech and language skills and a love of books and reading. They are free for under 5s and their grown-ups.
No need to book, just turn up on the day. Pop along to your local library to find out about your next Rhyme and Story Time. Whether your children are toddlers, teens or somewhere in between, there will be something for kids of all ages to enjoy.
