Newcastle's Eldon Square is offering youngsters the chance to borrow books from a new library that has opened inside the shopping centre.
The Little Library, based at Greys Quarter, opposite Chatime tea bar, features new and pre-loved children’s books. It is open from 11am to 4pm, seven days per week, until May 2, to give young shoppers the chance to read and borrow books and also take part in pop-up storytime events with guest speakers.
Suitable for children aged 12 and under, the event aims to increase reading opportunities for youngsters across the North East. It comes following a partnership with the Read North East campaign from the National Literacy Trust, and the North East’s largest baby bank, Clothe and Feed.
Tania Kelly, marketing manager at Eldon Square said: “We are incredibly proud to be part of the vibrant North-East region, and The Little Library is an initiative that allows us to give back to the local community and provide our family visitors with a unique experience.
"We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with The National Literacy Trust with the launch of this event, and it is great to welcome an exciting range of guest story tellers to the centre as part of the event. It is sure to be popular with both children and adults alike.”
Guest readers from Seven Stories, The North East Autism Society, Curious Arts, and Read North East will each take up a storytime slot on selected Saturdays for the duration of the event. Storytime will take place at intervals throughout the day starting with Seven Stories on April 2.
Read North East is encouraging shoppers to drop off any new or pre-loved books at the library and all remaining books will be donated to schools in and around the region.
James Kingett, programme manager of Read North East, said: “We are delighted to work with Eldon Square to spread excitement around books! It is brilliant to get the whole community involved and put more books into the hands of local children who need them most.
“Little Library is a great way to spark that initial joy of reading for families and encourages them to explore their local area, communicate with one another, and share stories. We hope it will inspire children to fall in love with the world of stories.”
