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Lord Louis Children's Library Reopens With Range Of Activities On Offer

Lord Louis Library's newly refurbished children’s and teen library is now open, just in time for the February half-term.

The vibrant makeover offers an enhanced experience for young readers and their families, with a series of engaging activities lined up for the holiday period and the reintroduction of cherished regular programmes.

The children’s library has undergone a remarkable transformation over recent months, featuring new carpets, fresh paint, and captivating window vinyls that bring a forest-themed environment to life.

Mandy Champken, the dedicated children's librarian, said:

"The children’s library looks better than ever. We’re eager for children to come in and experience the new forest-theme for themselves."

Among the regular offerings at Lord Louis Library are:

  • Rhyme Time: Delightful sessions for babies and toddlers every Friday at 10am and 11am.
  • Lego Club: Creative and interactive sessions held on the first and third Tuesday of each month from 3.30pm to 4.30pm.
  • Teddy Bear Story Time and Duplo Session: Engaging storytelling and playtime on Tuesdays at 10am, with an additional Toddler Story Time on Thursdays at 2.15pm.

For the February half-term, the library has scheduled an array of special events:

  • Make a Fluttering Butterfly: A hands-on crafting session for all ages on Saturday, 15 February from 2.30pm to 3.30pm. Pre-booking is essential.
  • Decorate a Fairy Door: Creative fun for children aged 4 and above on Friday, 21 February from 2.30pm to 3.30pm. Pre-booking is essential. 

Meanwhile, on Saturday, 22 February, Mandy Champken will host a delightful Teddy Bear's Picnic at the Quay Arts Centre for the Isle of Wight Story Festival, featuring stories and rhymes for younger children.

Additionally, activities for children will be available across most council libraries during the half-term holidays.

Councillor Julie Jones Evans, Cabinet member responsible for libraries, said:

“We are excited to see families enjoying the newly refurbished space and participating in the wonderful activities we have planned.

“Reading is an essential skill that nurtures imagination, creativity, and lifelong learning. Providing children with a welcoming and engaging library environment is crucial for fostering a love for reading and supporting their educational development.

“The joy of reading for pleasure cannot be overstated — it opens doors to new worlds and perspectives, enriching lives beyond measure. The new children’s library at Lord Louis will play a significant role in enhancing the experiences of young readers and their families.”

Further information on these events and other library services can be found at www.iow.gov.uk/thelibrary 

Stay connected and up-to-date with the latest happenings at Lord Louis Library by visiting the Friends of Lord Louis Library Facebook page and the Isle of Wight Story Festival website: https://www.iwstoryfestival.com/ 

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