ESSEX Libraries is one of ten library services across the eastern region to have secured funding to develop a joint summer reading and arts programme for young people in 2014. A total of £93,000 has been awarded using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. The funding will enable library services to work with artists and young volunteers to develop a range of reading activities and arts workshops young people during the summer of 2014.

Councillor John Jowers, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Libraries, Communities and Planning said, “Essex Libraries are already running a very successful Summer Reading Challenge and now the additional funding will enable young people to express their reading through a range of art forms, learn new skills and to work with some high quality artists.”