Spring into culture with Northumberland Libraries
03 Mar 2025
Northumberland is gearing up for an engaging and fun springtime with a series of events and initiatives designed to enrich communities and reflect modern library services.
From theatre performances to hands-on crafting sessions, Northumberland Library Service offers something for everyone to enjoy in the coming months - with families invited to take part in craft activities at libraries across Northumberland during half term week.
There’ll also be plenty of opportunities to spring into nature at Hexham Library, including a half term planting party on February 27 and an introduction to ‘Forest Bathing’ on March 14.
From March budding writers looking to develop their skills can sign up for the popular Start Writing Courses, offered in partnership with New Writing North. The courses will be hosted at two venues - Seaton Sluice Library with author Amanda Quinn, and Haltwhistle Library with Susannah Ronnie.
The six-week courses kick off in the week beginning March 3 with sessions providing support and guidance for writers at all levels – looking at storytelling, character development and creative expression.
Morpeth Book Festival returns for its third year on Saturday and Sunday, March 22 and 23 at Morpeth Library, in partnership with the Greater Morpeth Development Trust.
The ‘Weekend of Words’ festival will include appearances by celebrated authors Jessica Irena Smith and Kjartan Poskitt. And poetry lovers can look forward to a special programme in the Northern Poetry Library
For those looking to learn a new craft there will be a macrame workshop on March 24, at Morpeth Library. And local artist, Mo Healy, will give residents the chance to learn how to create hand folded books at Wooler Library on March 31 and April 28
Northumberland County Councillor Jeff Watson, Cabinet Member for Culture, Heritage and Libraries, said: “With author readings, book signings, and discussions, the event offers an opportunity for book lovers to connect with writers and fellow literary enthusiasts.
“Spring is a time for growth and renewal so our programme of events, which also includes creative workshops and touring performances, is just the ticket to get 2025 started with a calendar of cultural events.
“Touring performances from Highlights Rural Touring include “Third Class: A Titanic Story” at Berwick Library on Thursday, April 10. This performance brings to life previously untold stories of Titanic’s third-class passengers - and for an upbeat musical treat there’s “Sons of Town Hall” at Blyth Library on Thursday, May 20.
“Events are either free or low cost and are part of Northumberland County Council’s pledge to provide accessible cultural events for our residents.”
All events can be booked through Northumberland Libraries’ Eventbrite page at Nlandlibs.eventbrite.com. Start Writing Courses via New Writing North’s Eventbrite page, and for Highlights Rural Touring performances and the Morpeth Book Festival at www.ticketsource.co.uk
For more details visit the Northumberland Libraries website at www.mylibrary.co.uk