Love of libraries to be shared at city-wide festival

More than 130 libraries across Greater Manchester are taking part in the festival.

A former Blue Peter presenter, Doctor Who actor and the Poet Laureate are among the performers set to share their love of libraries next week at a city festival.

The Festival of Libraries begins in Greater Manchester on Wednesday, with a programme of poetry, talks and concerts set to be held across the region.

Presenter and children's author Konnie Huq, Salford actor Christopher Eccleston and British poet laureate Simon Armitage will all be involved in the festival.

Libraries have played a "vital role in shaping the cultural, imaginative and intellectual life of this country", said Mr Armitage.

John Rylands Library in Manchester is among the sites involved in the festival

The city region’s 133 libraries will all take part in the festival, with events between 12 and 16 June 2024.

Konnie Huq's Fearless Fairy Tales book will be feature in a trail where book hunters gather clues from libraries across the city as part of a competition.

Mr Armitage has penned lyrics to shine a light on the "illuminating" impact of the libraries in his hometown as part of the band LYR.

Meanwhile, Christopher Eccleston will give a talk as part of the Inspired Libraries series, where well-know figures discuss the impact of libraries on their lives.

"Libraries feed people’s interests and passions and provide access leading to connections being forged," he said.