Barnsley Libraries is delighted to welcome a host of talented local artists as part of its Library Lates Autumn and Winter programme, offering you the chance to get creative, learn new skills and connect with others in a relaxed environment.

This season's programme features a diverse range of hands-on workshops and cultural events led by local artists and makers. Participants can explore landscape painting with Lucy Pimpernell Wood, create terrariums with Olivia of Betty Hugh Plants, experiment with gel plate printing with Jennifer Ashby, craft sustainable rag wreaths with Yorkshire Blankets, and enjoy spoken word performances through Creative Recovery's In My Own Words storytelling event.

Library Lates has already helped hundreds of people across Barnsley discover new creative interests and improve their wellbeing. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with one attendee describing the sessions as "a wonderful chance to try something I haven't done before", while another commented: "I loved spending time engrossed in something to take me out of my headspace." Participants have also praised the opportunity to learn from professional artists, make new friends and enjoy dedicated time for creativity.

Many sessions have been subsidised through Arts Council England funding, helping to keep events affordable and accessible. A limited number of free Golden Tickets are available for people receiving unemployment or disability benefits, full-time students and senior citizens.

You can take a look at what’s on below. To see all events across our libraries, visit our website.

Cllr Sam Burdett, Cabinet Spokesperson for Communities, said:

“We’re proud of our libraries being spaces where people can learn, interact, and be creative. Library Lates offer a fantastic opportunity to try something new, whether that’s painting, printmaking, storytelling, textile crafts or even creating your own terrarium. These sessions are a great way to develop new skills, support wellbeing and celebrate the incredible creativity that exists across Barnsley. I’d really encourage everyone to explore the programme and book onto an activity that sparks their interest.”

What’s on?

Events for adults at Library @ The Lightbox

• Wednesday 2 September, 5.30pm to 7pm – Autumnal Rag Wreath Workshop

• Wednesday 7 October, 5pm to 7pm – Moth Night - In My Own Words, spoken word performances

• Wednesday 11 November, 5.30pm to 7pm – Landscape Painting Workshop

• Monday 7 December, 5.30pm to 7pm – Charcoal Christmas Cards

Events for families at Library @ The Lightbox

• Monday 14 September, 4.30pm to 6pm – Family Rag Wreath Making

• Monday 5 October, 4.30pm to 6pm – Family Felt Decorations Workshop

• Monday 2 November, 4.30pm to 6pm – Family Mini Terrariums Workshop

• Wednesday 2 December, 4.30pm to 6pm – Family Christmas Cards Poly Printing

Events for adults at Penistone Library

• Thursday 10 September, 5.30pm to 7pm – Landscape Painting Workshop

• Thursday 15 October, 5.30pm to 7pm – Gel Plate Printing

• Thursday 19 November, 5.30pm to 7pm – Terrariums Workshop