Books that Bloom – planting the seeds of a lifelong passion
Planting the seeds of a lifelong passion for reading is at the heart of a new initiative to help promote Darlington Libraries and all it has to offer.
Books that Bloom aims to highlight how easy it is to access your library’s digital services which opens up a host of books, magazines, newspapers and audiobooks for free via an iphone, ipad or other electronic device from wherever you are.
Colourful postcards have been produced with details of how to sign up to Darlington Libraries’ digital services providing access to its extensive catalogue via the Library App and Borrowbox simply by scanning a QR code.
If you’re not already a member of the library, the information on the postcards explains how you can join the library online and gain instant access.
But that’s not all, the extra special Books that Bloom postcards also have wildflower seeds embedded within them – so once you’ve downloaded your digital library, you can plant the card and watch it bloom!
Cllr Libby McCollom, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for local services, said: “By signing up to Darlington Libraries’ digital services you can access all your favourite books, magazines and newspapers for free through Borrowbox from wherever you are.
“It’s ideal for those who perhaps find it difficult to call into the library in person, or simply want to pass the time while enjoying a coffee in their local café, waiting at a bus stop or for an appointment.
“The new Books that Bloom postcards are a great, eco-friendly way to spread the word and will be distributed at venues around the town, as well as events such as our Eco Fair in June.
“Do look out for them and pick one up – and once you’ve finished with it, you can plant it in a pot or your garden and look forward to seeing some wildflowers grow!”
Remember also, Darlington Libraries boasts so much more than just books and there’s always something going on, with a host of events and activities at its branches, including the following:
The Hive
Design & Print – Mondays, 3-5pm. Ages 16+, free.
Design & Print – Saturdays bi-weekly, 10-11.30am. Ages 8+, free.
Make Do and Mend – Tuesdays, 10-11am, Ages 16+, free.
Fabric Friends – Tuesdays, 1-5pm. Ages 16+, free.
Craft and Chat – Thursdays, 10-11.30am. Ages 16+, £5.
Krafty Kids – Thursdays, 4-5pm. Ages 8+, £2.50.
Movie Makers – Saturdays, 2-3pm. Ages 8+, £2.50.
The Art Gallery - Golden Moments – monthly. Older adults and those with dementia. Free, but suggested donation of £3.50.
The Study – Watercolours – third Tuesday of every month. Ages 16+, £5.
Cockerton Library – Watercolours – fortnightly on Fridays. Ages 16+, £5.
Both libraries – Lego Club – Saturdays, 10am-noon. Ages 3+, free.
There’s also regular Bookstart Rhymetimes for babies and toddlers at both libraries, and a weekly Stay and Play at Darlington Library. See website for details of these and other events.
To find out more about Darlington Libraries, the fantastic range of resources it offers and details of events/activities log onto the website at www.darlington.gov.uk/library or download the Darlington Library App. You can also find them on Facebook @DarlingtonLibraries.
Photo caption L-R: Suzy Hill, library manager and Cllr Libby McCollom, cabinet member for local services