Readers Groups and Reading

Forthcoming Author Events

Barnsley libraries regularly host Author Talks and Events which are open to members of the public and are usually free of charge.  Here are some of the warm comments from visiting authors

Catherine Bailey, author of the hugely successful 'Black Diamonds' says 'Of all the venues for the Black Diamonds speaking engagements Barnsley Library is undoubtably my favourite.  I had a fabulous reception, the audience was delightfully friendly and expressed a great interest in the book and the issues it addresses.  I'm sure you will continue to attract the great range of authors that you have succeeded in drawing to Barnsley in recent years'.

'I had a great evening at Barnsley Library. The hospitality was brilliant and thanks for making me so welcome.  I had a very good audience, really enjoyed meeting people afterwards and signing books.  I believe very firmly that libraries play such an important part in our society and should be supported to the full.  Long may they flourish'.  Steve Smith, Barnsley born solicitor and author of several books highlighting the comic side of his career.

'Barnsley library is like visiting your favourite relatives.  Welcoming, warm and when they wave you off, you know it's only till the next time.  And it bucks you up.  Barnsley Libraries know how to buck you up' says Ian Clayton, author, television and radio broadcaster and a passionate advocate for books and reading.

'The warmth of the welcome, the pleasant surroundings, the range and quality of the speakers - and the comfortable chairs...all help to make these sessions a pleasure.  But the real buzz is the audiences and their increasing demand for tickets.  It is sheer delight to be a part of the interaction - individual book-lovers getting together with pupils across every age range...'. Mel Dyke, educational advisor and local author of books such as 'All for Barnsley'.   

Reader's Group Service

Reader's groups are run at various branch libraries in the borough, meeting regularly to discuss books, authors or a genre of fiction or non-fiction over coffee, tea and biscuits.  They are independent groups, open to any member of the public who already is, or would like to become, a member of the library.  Discussion is friendly and informal and all group members are made welcome and their opinions treated with respect.

Please revisit this page where additional information will be posted as available.  For further details of any event please contact Jill Craven, Reader Development Officer on 01226 773921 or jillcraven@barnsley.gov.uk

The Library Service would like to extend their grateful thanks to The Barnsley Chronicle and editor Robert Cockcroft, Kate Rusby, Penistone and District Community Parnership, Penistone Paramount Cinema, BBC Audiobooks, Ulverscroft Large Print Publishers, Hodder Publishers and Transworld Publishers for their generous donations during the National Year of Reading 2008.