Libraries
Immerse yourself in a summer of reading, learning and crafting with Walsall Libraries
Published on
Walsall Council is inviting residents to make the most of their local libraries this summer, with a programme of free activities full, with something for all ages.
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.
"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. “
Summer Reading Challenge returns
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.
Ready to Learn Passport
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
A packed programme of free activities
Throughout the summer holidays, libraries across Walsall will host a wide range of free activities, including:
- Story and craft sessions
- Lego clubs and drop-in building sessions
- Board games and puzzles
- Rhyme Time sessions for babies and young children
- Coding Club
- Play and Stay sessions
- Children's story times
- Reading groups for adults
- Autism-friendly sessions
- Community craft and social groups
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
Notes to Editors:
Walsall has seven community libraries, an archives service at Lichfield Street Hub, and a mobile library service:
- Aldridge Community Library, Rookery Lane, Aldridge WS9 8NP (AldridgeLibrary@walsall.gov.uk – 01922 655 569)
- Bloxwich Community Library, High Street, Bloxwich WS3 2DA (BloxwichLibrary@walsall.gov.uk – 01922 655 900)
- Brownhills Community Library, Park View Centre, Chester Road North, Brownhills WS8 7JB (BrownhillsLibrary@walsall.gov.uk – 01922 650 730)
- Darlaston Community Library, 1 King Street, Darlaston WS10 8DE (DarlastonLibrary@walsall.gov.uk – 01922 654 777)
- Lichfield Street Hub (Walsall Central Library and Archives), Lichfield Street, Walsall WS1 1TR – (LSHlibrary@walsall.gov.uk – 01922 653 121)
- Streetly Community Library, Blackwood Road, Streetly B74 3PL (StreetlyLibrary@walsall.gov.uk – 01922 654 864)
- Willenhall Community Library, Walsall Street, Willenhall WV13 2EX (WillenhallLibrary@walsall.gov.uk – 01922 650 771)
For more information on Walsall’s community libraries, please visit: go.walsall.gov.uk/walsall-libraries
About the Summer Reading Challenge:
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.
About The Reading Agency:
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.
