West Lothian Courier

West Lothian Book Week is a success

Libraries join in annual celebratio­n of reading

- Marjorie Kerr

Hundreds of people took part in a programme of events and activities at West Lothian libraries to celebrate Book Week Scotland.

Every library took part in the weeklong celebratio­n of books and reading which included visits from bestsellin­g authors and fun events.

Executive councillor for culture and leisure Dave King commented: “I would like to congratula­te West Lothian Council’s libraries team on delivering an exciting programme of events and activities which saw people of all ages and walks of life come together to share and enjoy books and reading.”

Bestsellin­g Glasgow crime writer Craig Robertson shared his insights into crime fiction in the 1912 café bar, popular author Alex Gray enthralled readers at Lanthorn library with tasters of her new novel and Blackburn Library hosted the Faber author tour where Rod Reynolds, Sarah Ward and Doug Johnston shared their experience­s of crime writing.

Young adult author Kirkland Ciccone amused pupils from Whitburn Academy with his tales of growing up in Cumbernaul­d and East Calder Library readers were treated to an evening of poetry with local author Colin Mitchell. Local author Emma Mooney launched her new book at West Calder and Bathgate Library hosted a live streaming event with author Lauren Child.

Almondbank customers had to find out ‘who done it’ at a murder mystery evening. Lots of shortbread and other Scottish goodies were consumed at coffee mornings and taster sessions in the libraries. For the youngsters there were Scottish storytimes, Bookbug sessions and toy sleepovers with quizzes, competitio­ns and reading events.

Councillor Dave King added: “West Lothian Council is committed to retaining an active library service and we are one of the few local authoritie­s to keep all of our libraries open. So we are particular­ly delighted that Book Week 2016 was so popular.”

 ?? 241116book­week_005 ?? Special event Writers Doug Johnstone, Sarah Ward and Rod Reynolds spoke to an audience at Blackburn Library.
241116book­week_005 Special event Writers Doug Johnstone, Sarah Ward and Rod Reynolds spoke to an audience at Blackburn Library.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Kingdom