A unique reading scheme aiming to get people living on Islington’s estates interested in books and getting people reading again has been shortlist for the 2005 CILIP/LiS Libraries Change Lives Award. Islington Council’s New Horizons project which has brought mini libraries to people’s doorsteps on the borough’s six largest estates is so popular that almost 1500 local residents have joined so far and 15,000 books have been taken out.The choice of books is largely determined by what local people want to read - they are actively encouraged to ask for whatever they want. Many choose popular new books and getting the books in quickly is an important aspect.Nigel Thomas, Chair of the judges commented: "Islington’s New Horizons Reading Campaign has shown how it is possible to bring people of all ages and diversity back into reading through delivery of an innovative service in venues at the heart of local communities. “This is great news as the New Horizons reading scheme is getting people reading, especially those who might not otherwise do so." says Councillor Laura Willoughby, Islington's Executive Member for Communities. “The community library venues are very relaxed drop-in environments with friendly staff, many of whom were brought up on these estates and are familiar to local people, and also they offer readers a say in what they want the library to stock.“For young people not wanting books, we have a good selection of magazines. It’s all about getting everyone back into reading and maybe they themselves will develop a greater interest and take it a stage further.”New Horizons community libraries open once a week on the Andover and Six Acres Estates, Packington, Bemerton, Mayville and Hanley Crouch estates. As well as normal opening times in local community centres, the libraries also attend evening and weekend events such as bingo, line dancing and youth clubs. “Going to the library is the highlight of my week - it’s on the doorstep, we enjoy talking to the staff and look forward to choosing a new book,” says an older lady who goes to the Packington Library. “Sometimes it’s the only time I get out of the flat.”The winner of the award will be announced by poet and writer Benjamin Zephaniah on Wednesday 20 April 2005. The winning project receives a trophy and £4,000 prize money. The two runners-up both receive a cheque for £1,000. Library opening times:Andover Community LibraryOpen Every Monday 10am - 2pmBemerton Community LibraryOpen Every Friday 10am - 2pmHanley Crouch Community LibraryOpen Every Wednesday 10am - 2pmMayville Community LibraryOpen Every Wednesday 11am - 2pmPackington Community LibraryOpen every Monday 10am - 2pmends
Page Last Updated: 29 July 2008