Merton readers widen their horizons with National Libraries Day

· by · in Libraries. ·

Merton readers who fancy a chance to win a trip to the theatre will be beating a path to their local libraries this month, as National Libraries Day (NLD) approaches on 4 February.

The borough’s seven libraries will hold open days for NLD today and 4 February to launch the campaign: “Opening doors, Opening books, Opening minds”. This aims to raise awareness and encourage use of Merton libraries.

This campaign, running till April, offers prizes to any Merton residents who use their library card in this period, including theatre tickets from New Wimbledon Theatre and to the Wimbledon Greyhound Stadium. It also offers an annual gym membership, a Merton Adult Education course, and cinema tickets.

This month will focus on libraries ‘Opening doors’ and encourages residents to use their local library; March will focus on ‘Opening books’ linking to initiatives including World Book Day and the Six Book Challenge.

April’s theme will be “Opening minds’, promoting Cityread London activities, adult education courses, volunteering opportunities, heritage services and more.

Merton Council cabinet member for community and culture, Councillor Martin Whelton, said: “We want to encourage all our residents and families to use our libraries, whether they want to pick up the latest bestseller, rent DVDs, use the free internet service, attend storytelling or a reading group – libraries offer something for all.

“The campaign ‘Opening doors, Opening books, Opening minds’ is about encouraging and promoting library use, and I hope that Merton residents of all ages will take advantage of all that is on offer.”

Notes to editors:
For more information on Merton libraries, please visit: http://www.merton.gov.uk/libraries
Children can enjoy a pirate show courtesy of the Travelling Interactive Theatre for Children (TITCH), a Discover Drama workshop, Chinese New Year Craft and storytelling workshop, and a Twist of Gold workshop by Polka Theatre.
For more information on Cityread London, the London Libraries’ initiative delivering free and innovative events to engage young people with literature and the history of their city, please visit: http://www.cityreadlondon.org.uk
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Press Contact:
Nina Romain
Communications Officer
London Borough of Merton
020 8545 4654