Join in with 'the Inn Crowd' at Hawes Library

Hawes library will host a theatre performance from the Inn Crowd at 7pm on Friday, October 22. It will be based on the stories about supermarkets and the people who love them by John Osborne

It's all part of a month of activities in libraries across the Dales this October.  Author talks, children’s activities and the Hawes theatre performance are among the events featured in a month-long celebration of North Yorkshire’s much-loved libraries.

Hawes library will host a theatre performance from the Inn Crowd at 7pm on Friday, October 22. It will be based on the stories about supermarkets and the people who love them by John Osborne. To book a place please email hawes.library@outlook.com or call 01609 534597.

To coincide with National Libraries Week (October 4 to 10), residents are being challenged to Squeeze in a Read to encourage more people to make a safe return to libraries.

The popular Tea and Tales events will restart in many libraries including Catterick, Richmond and Ripon, which encourages adults to meet regularly at the library for a fun and informal chat over a cup of tea or coffee. Themes for discussions may include items from the libraries illustrated early children’s book collection, children’s TV from years gone by and holiday destinations.

Children are being encouraged to take part in Buzzy Bee’s Squeeze in a Read competition. Families at libraries in Ingleton, Boroughbridge, and Malton will be able to take part in an Alice in Wonderland inspired activity featuring puzzles, games and crafts.

County Councillor Greg White, Executive Member for Libraries, said: “During the various lockdowns and restrictions over 14,500 people joined the library and borrowed 1.3 million books, e-books and e-audiobooks. Our libraries helped people access reading materials and information through book bundles, digital library services and online events for all ages.

“Now, as things gradually return to normal and library storytimes, knit and natter groups, IT support sessions and coffee and conversation groups restart, the library teams of staff and volunteers are keen to support library visitors to continue to feel the benefit of reading for pleasure. Libraries Month is an opportunity to welcome everyone back in style with the invitation to Squeeze in a Read.”

The library service is reassuring visitors that although coronavirus restrictions have been relaxed, its buildings are a safe place to be and they can return with confidence. Library staff and volunteers are continuing to wear face masks and customers are encouraged to do the same. Hand sanitiser stations are still in use and track and trace is available.

Cllr White added: “The safety of visitors remains our priority. We want everyone to feel comfortable in our libraries so we are asking people to be considerate to others and we still have a number of safety measures in place.”

Find out more about the library service during the pandemic at www.northyorks.gov.uk/library-and-record-office-services-during-coronavirus-covid-19

For more information about free library membership, events and activities at your local library please follow your local library on Facebook or visit www.northyorks.gov.uk/libraries-0