Wrexham Libraries: summer fun, reading groups and more

Joining a reading group is a great way to share the pleasure of reading, exchange views on books and read titles you might not have come across. Whether you want to discuss the classics or get your teeth into the latest bestseller, a book club could be for you and they are also a great way to meet new people. Many of Wrexham's libraries run reading groups, and Cefn Mawr is starting a new group with the first meeting on Thursday, July 28, from 2pm-3pm. A warm welcome a good book and a cuppa awaits you! For more details call the library on 01978 820938.

Children's craft session at Wrexham Library

Are you looking for a new way of entertaining your children this summer holidays? Why not book a place on this fantastic craft session at Wrexham library where children can make a split-pin Robot. This sessions ties in nicely with this year's Summer Reading Challenge - Gadgeteers. The session is suitable for children aged 5+ and booking is essential and will take place on Friday, July 29, from 1pm-2pm. Don't forget to join them on the Summer Reading Challenge too, you'll have access to the website which will give you lots of ideas for fun, activities and reading over the school holidays.

Learning at Lunchtime

Writing For Self Discovery is a brief workshop in which author Paula Roscoe will be using writing techniques to help you identify with how you truly feel about yourself and to identify what is happening within your life. Once you establish what's actually going on for you, it is easier to move forward and find answers and heal. This session will take place on Wednesday, August 3, from 1pm-2pm, and is free of charge, but booking is essential. Call Wrexham Library on 01978 292090 to reserve your place.

Story time at Rhos Library

Ti a Fi will be finishing at Rhos library for the summer holiday, but don't worry the sessions will continue with the library staff. These fun, friendly bilingual story times will take place every Friday throughout the school holidays from 10am-10.30am and will be followed by a cuppa for parents afterwards. You can even join your children on the Summer Reading Challenge and collect reading rewards along the way. Children are never too young to 'read' a book! For more details call the library on 01978 840328.

The benefits of visiting your library

The first and most important benefit of visiting a library is access to free books. You don't have to spend a single penny for any book that you borrow.  You can find all sorts of books at your local library covering all sorts of genres and for all age groups in various formats; they even have e-books and e-audio books which you can download free to your digital device. Many people find it very difficult to study at home, college or work but libraries can provide you with a safe and quite place to study. Trained library staff add a lot more to the library experience as they have a wide knowledge of books and reading, and are happy to help you choose your next book. Libraries are a great place to socialize with your local community, you can get to know people that have the same interests you do. Today's libraries are active neighbourhood hubs offering social interaction with shared cultural experiences and great activities. In the words of Hermione from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling: "Harry - I think I've just understood something! I've got to go to the library!"

Book Review

The Last Bear by Hannah Gold

The Last Bear by Hannah Gold

This debut novel by Hannah Gold is beautifully illustrated by Levi Pinfold, and has been named as the overall winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2022. The book tells the story of a very special relationship between a child and a polar bear, which will inspire readers of all ages to realise that they, like April, can make a difference in the battle against climate change.

When animal-loving April arrives on Bear Island in the Arctic Circle where she will live for the next six months while her father runs the scientific operations, she is told that, despite the island's name, there are no bears on it. The melting ice caps mean the polar bears can no longer arrive from the nearest mainland near Svalbard. But one endless summer night, April meets one. He is starving, lonely and a long way from home. Determined to save him, April begins the most important journey of her life. Confident of her ability to communicate with the bear and to feed him, April nourishes the bear and even plans his return to safety. This moving story will win the hearts of children the world over and show them that no one is too young or insignificant to make a difference. The Last Bear is a celebration of the love between a child and an animal, a battle cry for our world and an irresistible adventure with a heart as big as a bear's. Lynda D