With the summer holidays in full swing, Isle of Wight libraries are proving once again they’re more than just places to borrow books.
Across the Island, libraries are opening their doors to families with a packed programme of free creative activities designed to keep children entertained, inspired, and learning throughout the break.
From painting rock owls to crafting garden wind chimes, there’s something to inspire every young imagination.
Lord Louis Library, Newport is hosting a variety of themed sessions:
- Paint Your Own Rock Owls — Thursday 31st July 2.30–3.30pm (Ages 5+)
- Create Your Own Pretty Butterflies — Saturday 2nd August 2.30–3.30pm (Ages 5+)
- Make a Handprint Blossom Tree — Thursday 7th August 2.30–3.30pm (Ages 3+)
- Make a Garden in a Teacup –— Monday 11th August 2.15–3.30pm (Ages 7+)
- Make Garden Wind Chimes — Monday 18th August 2.30–3.30pm (Ages 5+)
- Make Clay Mini Beasts — Saturday 23rd August 2–3.30pm (Ages 5+)
Sandown Library offers drop-in and bookable sessions:
- Junk Modelling — Tuesday 5thAugust 10.30am–12 noon (Ages 4+, drop-in)
- Plant Pot Decorating and Re-potting — Friday 15th August 10.30am (Ages 5+)
- Drop-in Summer Crafts — Tuesday 19th August 10.30am–12 noon (Ages 4+)
- Make a Pirate Mask — Saturday 23rd August 10.30am–12 noon (Ages 3+)
Freshwater Library is running a series of open-access printing workshops:
- Printing Paper — Wednesday 6th August 2–4pm
- Printing T-Shirts — Wednesday 13th August 2–4pm
- Printing Bags — Wednesday 20th August 2–4pm
- Printing Pictures — Wednesday 27th August 2–4pm
Ventnor Library invites children to:
- Grow a Story: Creative Session — Wednesday 13th August 10.30–11.30am (Ages 5+)
- Make a Wriggly Caterpillar — Saturday 23rd August 10.30–11.30am (Ages 5+)
Ryde Library is also joining the fun:
- Make a Carnival Mask — Wednesday 20th August 10.30am–12 noon (drop-in)
- Story Garden Craft — Friday 22nd August 10.30–11.30am (Ages 5+)
Cowes Library will host a Garden Craft session on Saturday 16th August 2–4pm (drop-in). Please note: there are currently no toilet facilities at this location.
All activities are free of charge, but many require booking due to limited spaces. To reserve a spot, contact the relevant library directly. For full details, visit the website.
Emery: We’re really proud to offer such a wide range of free activities
Louise Emery, development librarian for the Isle of Wight Council Library Service, said,
“We know how important it is for children to stay active and creative over the summer.
“These sessions are a great way to have fun, try something new, and discover the joy of reading. We’re really proud to offer such a wide range of free activities for families across the Island.”
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
