Isle of Wight libraries are celebrating the power of reading and literacy as part of this year’s Libraries Week (1st-7th June).
With 2026 marking the National Year of Reading, the theme of the annual campaign is ‘Libraries Change Lives through literacy and reading’.
The initiative, led by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP), aims to shine a spotlight on the vital role library services play in communities across the UK.
On the Isle of Wight, library staff have been gathering first-hand accounts from residents about the difference local libraries have made to them.
Personal stories highlight library impact
These personal stories are being shared on the Isle of Wight Libraries Facebook page throughout the week.
Development librarian, Joanna Cooke, said the response from users had been overwhelmingly positive. She said,
“It’s been really lovely to hear how much our libraries mean to customers.
“We hope their enthusiasm will encourage more people to come and see the wide range of services we offer.”
Pop-up libraries coming to Morrisons and St Mary’s Hospital
As part of the celebrations, a series of pop-up libraries will be taking place across the Island. Residents can find library staff at Morrisons in Lake on Wednesday, 3rd June, and at St Mary’s Hospital on Friday, 5th June, between 10am and 3pm.
The sessions are designed to introduce people to the range of services available, both in branches and online.
Visitors will be able to sign up for membership, ask questions, and discover everything from digital resources to community events – and there may even be a few giveaways on offer.
Creative workshops planned for younger residents
The programme of events continues later in the month, with creative workshops planned for younger residents.
On Saturday, 20th June, Lord Louis Library will host a “learn to crochet” workshop for teenagers, run in partnership with New Carnival.
A further book-making workshop will take place at Ryde Library on Wednesday, 1st July. Both activities are funded by The Reading Agency as part of the National Year of Reading celebrations.
Library organisers say workshops like these are a key part of what modern library services provide, helping people learn new skills, build confidence and connect with others.
Joanna said,
“These kinds of activities happen regularly in our libraries and are just one of the many ways we support people and help change lives.”
How to find out more and book a place
Further details on how to book a place at the crochet and book-making sessions will be released on the library service’s website in due course.
Residents can find out more about Libraries Week events and the full range of services available by visiting the Isle of Wight Council website or following Isle of Wight Libraries on Facebook.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
