This will build on the ‘Use
it, love it, join it’ event in Whitstable in 2012 which marked the first
ever National Libraries Day. The success of that event has
encouraged Kent County Council to organise a programme of events in support of
NLD2013 whereas a year ago it instructed staff to ignore the national
celebration of libraries. On 9 February, local adults and children will gather for ‘chalking & talking’ in Library
Square starting at 11 am. There will be short speeches about the importance of
libraries and then participants will gather inside the library to show support
for this vital and valuable community
resource.
Everyone attending is
asked to bring the OPENING SENTENCE of a book they have enjoyed reading during
the last year and would recommend others to read. Those who like to are invited
to come dressed as a character from their chosen book.
The gathering will be a celebration of the service and
opportunities – open to everyone- that
our libraries provide. KCC Libraries Department has given an assurance that
there are currently no plans to cut local library provision. But that has
happened in some other local authorities; so local residents remain vigilant
and ready to oppose any attempts to reduce the facilities, staffing or resources currently available. NLD2013 is
also an opportunity to show solidarity with residents in other areas who are
having to fight cuts and closures in their library service.
As local resident, Charlotte Baynes, said during
preparations for NLD 2013:
'Libraries are
important. Many of us assume they will always be there. If we just try to
imagine our lives without them, we can see how impoverished future generations
would be without that easy access.to the opportunity to explore the written
word along with so much more. It would be like removing an essential life raft,
especially to those who do not have the resources at hand and who need it
most.'
Public libraries are cornerstones of healthy and optimistic
communities. On 9 February, Whitstable residents are invited to once again
gather to show that they believe in being part of a strong and vibrant
community and want their libraries to continue to be vital centres within that community.
On 9 February : .
11am Outdoor gathering in Library Squarefor ‘chalk
& talk’ about the opening sentences of favourite books plus parade of
characters from them.
11.30* Short
speeches about the importance and value of libraries and photo opportunity.
11.50* Indoor
‘Read-in’ followed by individual and family browsing, choosing books (and
joining) in the library
For further
information: Richard Stainton
07768 886949 rjstainton@hotmail.co.uk
