Kempston Library will welcome its newest member next week when the Waterstones Children’s Laureate, Joseph Coelho visits as part of his nationwide ‘Library Marathon’.
The award-winning performance poet and children’s author will visit Kempston Library on Tuesday 24 January between 1pm and 2pm to sign up for a library card and will be performing some of his poetry.
He’ll be chatting to staff and visitors and local schoolchildren have also been invited to the event.
When he became Children’s Laureate, Joseph set himself a ‘Library Marathon’ challenge – to join a public library in every local authority across the UK during his tenure
This ambitious plan to champion local libraries and the vital role they play within the community began in 2019. It was put on hold due to the Covid pandemic and has since continued. The award-winning performance poet, playwright, and children’s author has less than 70 libraries left to visit, with Kempston Library next on his list.
Councillor Doug McMurdo, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, said, “It’s fantastic that the Waterstones Children’s Laureate has chosen to visit Kempston Library and perform for visitors.
“I encourage anyone that is available to visit and enjoy his performance.”
The ‘Library Marathon’ is one of three major initiatives announced by the current Waterstones Children’s Laureate.
Coelho’s other campaigns include the ‘Poetry Prompts’ and ‘Bookmaker Like You’. ‘Poetry Prompts’ is a weekly online series celebrating the power of poetry in all its forms. ‘Bookmaker Like You’ aims to showcase a diversity of new talent within the book industry so that every child can see themselves as a bookmaker.
Call Kempston Library on 01234 276453 for more information about the event. Find out more about the Waterstones Children’s Laureate programme at booktrust.org.uk/childrens-laureate.
Discover how to join Bedford Borough Libraries and learn all about the resources and activities available for you and your family at bedford.gov.uk/libraries.
